Past, present, future theme for Lakeside concert

Ian Edward has special memories of watching the Howard Morrison Quartet who were the ''Beatles of the time".

It was one of the greatest things young Ian had ever seen. The Lakeside concerts grew out of Ian's childhood memories of attending Rotorua's Soundshell New Year's Eve concerts.

''So it just seemed a good idea to rekindle that which always existed. Lakeside is a modern interpretation from those early days,'' the Rotorua Lakeside Concert Charitable Trust chairman says.

Lakeside 2019 returns to Rotorua Village Green on March 9 in its 23rd year, presented by the charitable trust.

Ian says Rotorua has historically always provided fantastic hospitality for its visitors ''and Māoridom has been doing that for more than 150 years''. The theme is Waiata Mai #pastpresentfuture.

''This year the theme is to review earlier times and to feature both the people and the places that have made Rotorua iconic.''

The show has been designed with a strong component of nostalgia with many songs from the 1940s era onwards. It will also be a look into the future, Ian says, hence the past, present and future theme.

Ian and trust members would like to acknowledge the help of the crew — creative, artistic, musical and choreography directors, the technical staff and volunteers who help with the smooth running of the show. Ian says those involved are the best in the business.

''The appeal of the concert is, it is created by local people but making it as professional as it possibly can be.''

Ian would like to advise people to check on 'useful information' on website www.rotorualakesideconcert.co.nz so they come prepared.

The line-up features many of the best Kiwi talent there is. In the mix this year is the Koi Boys, who have ties to Rotorua.

Ian is thrilled the group is coming back to Rotorua.

"They were a massive attraction two years ago. Given the last time the concert was held indoors, I'm looking forward to getting them back to perform in the magic that is our outdoor concert. They will be a major hit."

The line-up
The line-up
Leon Wharekura, artistic director
Rewa Ututaonga, artistic director
Mark Williams, artist
The Koi Boys, artists
Jack Grace, artist
Suzanne Lynch, artist
Yandall Sisters, artists
Daniel Nathan, artist
Krissie Knap, artist
Jamey Ferguson, artist
Elisha Hulton, artist
Atutahi Potaka-Dewes, emerging artist
Hinerongonui Kingi, emerging artist
Turanga Merito, choreographer
Howie Morrison, MC/artist
Tom Poata, MC
Dixon Nacey, musical director
Andy Cochrane, keyboards
Ernie Semu, keyboards
Richard Anaru, lead guitar
Karika Turua, bass guitar
Neville Grenfell, trumpet
Steve Sheriff, saxophone
Grant Sinclair, trombone
Mickey Ututaonga, drums
Cherie Mathieson, backing vocalist
Gail Tipene, backing vocalist
Sharon Small, backing vocalist
Drury Lane, dance troupe ¦Dance Central, dance troupe
Lakes Performing Arts Company, dance troupe /