Macleans College students to perform at Polyfest 2023
Posted on March 01, 2023
The Auckland Secondary Schools Māori & Pacific Islands Cultural Festival (aka Polyfest) is taking place next week at the Manukau Sports Bowl.
The 2023 theme is Mana Motuhake which for this year’s event translates into "creating one’s own destiny". This can encompass many meanings so each stage will incorporate what Mana Motuhake means to them.
The Chinese dance students, and Indian dance students, are performing on the Diversity stage on Friday 10 March.
The Indian dance team is led by student leaders: Rishita Rasela (Kupe House), Risha Sapaliga (Hillary), Gurnoor Dhaliwal (Batten), Karen Kaur (Te Kanawa) and Tajnoor Wander (Te Kanawa). Their interpretation of the theme Mana Motuhake is to be able to love life for all its highs and lows. In the face of obstacles, it is to put on a brave face and persevere through it all to reach our best potential. To be able to let go of what others think so we achieve dreams and create ones' own destinies through determination and perseverance. Their song throughout the 10 minute performance reflect these sentiments.
The Chinese dance team is led by student leader Fiona Teng (Kupe). Their performance involves two dances: Meirenguan and Mangzhong. Merging the idea of one's destiny being chosen by a higher authority such as the emperor, which was common in the dynasties; versus, creating own destinies by the relatively modern day farmers and peasants who reap what they sow.
Tune in and watch the students representing Macleans College via live stream on the ASB Polyfest website or should you wish to attend in person, tickets can be purchased through iTICKET.