Deva Mahal and local talent launch Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival’s 10th anniversary

The Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival opens with performances in Hastings and Havelock North, featuring soul singer Deva Mahal. Photo / Courtney Henderson

The Hawke’s Bay Arts Festival has returned after a year off, marking its 10th anniversary with an opening night on Thursday featuring live performances in Hastings and Havelock North.

At Toitoi: Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre, international blues sensation Deva Mahal made her long-awaited Hawke’s Bay debut, bringing powerhouse vocals to the Opera House.

Meanwhile, in Havelock North, the voices of tomorrow took the spotlight as Project Prima Volta performers filled the Blyth Performing Arts Centre for a thrilling showcase of young local talent.

Festival director Jade Baker said the opening night reflected what the event means to the region.

“After a year off, it’s incredibly moving to see people showing up, supporting live performance, and reminding us of what the arts bring to a place like Hawke’s Bay.

“This tenth festival is a celebration of everything we’ve learned and loved so far - and a chance to look ahead to the next ten years.”

The 10-day programme, which runs until October 19, spans music, theatre, dance, circus, cabaret, and visual arts, with events taking place across Napier, Hastings, and Havelock North.

“The programme is full of events that are made to be shared ... it’s about getting out, having a great night, and discovering something that speaks to you.”

Festival organisers said some events have already sold out and they are encouraging people to book early.

Upcoming highlights include:

• Cirque Bon Bon – a glittering international circus spectacular (October 17 - 19 at Toitoi Opera House).
• Hysterical – an award-winning female-led theatre piece that’s as funny as it is fierce (October 11 at MTG Napier).
• Guru of Chai - described as a work of genius by the Indian Ink Theatre Company (October 11 at Toitoi Opera House).
• Holding Ground and Intensional Particle – a world premiere collaboration from NZ Dance Company (October 16 at Napier Municipal Theatre).
• Master of None: Brown Fala – a soulful, personal exploration by Hawke’s Bay’s Lila Crichton (October 12 at MTG Hawke’s Bay).
• Fables – an intimate indie-folk gig (October 17 at Paisley Stage)