AUTUMN FESTIVAL 2009
Wednesday 18th - Saturday 21st March
A FABULOUS AUTUMN FESTIVAL WEEK
The week of the Autumn Festival was really a high-light in our already busy year. It brought together the efforts of many people within and from far beyond Hohepa Canterbury and produced a cultural richness that blended the traditional with the modern – and the unexpected.
On Wednesday the Eurythmy group touring from Switzerland, brought us a programme that was inspired by Maori lore. One of the creation stories was presented in slow, unfolding movements where we could see the separation and harmonising of vast forces.
The next piece described the origin of Matariki: the fate of the star brightest in the sky until chased from her pre-eminence by the jealous strength of Tane Mahuta and shattered into the cluster of lights we call the Pleiades. Tall poppy syndrome translated as eurythmyth.
Lastly we were amused by the misfortunes of long-legged Pukeko caught up by his curiosity and forced to emigrate from the forest to the wetlands where we see him today, eternally seeking the lost tiki he should have returned to its owner.
The next evening we gathered in the Recreation Centre again to follow the heroic tale of George coming to the rescue of the villagers, made fearful of the rampaging dragon with the gaping red jaws. The brave princess is ready to sacrifice herself for the safety of the people despite the sadness of the King and Queen. However, George, inspired with the courage of St Michael, takes arms against the evil and leads the villagers to strike with iron will. The dragon conquered, we turned our hands to representing him and the noble George in clay; each house now has its spiny monster lying in the lounge, reminding us of the courage and compassion needed to face the darkening year.
On Friday morning we were able to see the tableau of the Hohepa Eurythmy group supported by Michael. In the afternoon’s beautiful weather the farm was the setting for the harvest table and the address by Clifford, followed by the farm walk and activities.
Lastly, on Saturday afternoon we were privileged to have not one, but two orchestras present a programme of music in the “interactive” way that makes these afternoons so much fun. Theresa and Andrew offered their own music; Maryanne’s musical knowledge momentarily stumped the Director, and the group of assistant conductors so impressed the orchestral players that it was clear that the good humour of the afternoon was entirely reciprocal.
Thanks to all who worked to make these Autumn gifts possible. Whether we could see all or only some of them, each offering was nourishment for the soul.
SUMMER FESTIVAL - FEBRUARY 2009
Fun galore on Valentine’s Day when residents, staff and family members gathered at the Hohepa Canterbury Farm at Halswell Village. Afternoon tea, a sponge throwing competition, and most fiercely competed for, the most spectacular hat! All in all, a wonderful summer afternoon thoroughly enjoyed by all.
