Check out this month’s events

THAT’S Entertainment!

Auckland Arts Festival

March 4-21, times and locations vary, Auckland

From theatre to dance, music, cabaret and more, this annual festival showcases the Super City’s creativity in many forms. A local highlight My Name is Moana (March 11, Hawkins Theatre, Papakura) sees legendary Kiwi singer/songwriter, Moana Maniapoto and other special guests in a tribute to Aotearoa and its peoples’ relationship with the sea. For more information about this show, and the rest of this year’s festival programme, see full schedule at www.aaf.co.nz.

International Women’s Day – Celebration & Buffet Lunch

March 6, from 10am, Pukekohe Cosmopolitan Club, 78 Nelson Street, Pukekohe

With key speakers including Minister for Foreign Affairs, Nanaia Mahuta, this event (organised by Business & Professional Women, Franklin) expects to prove inspirational to women of all ages. For tickets or more information, contact BPW via www.bpwfranklin.org.nz or www.facebook.com/BPWFranklinNZ.

Tutus on Tour

March 11, from 6.30pm, Vodafone Events Centre, 770 Great South Rd, Manukau

The Royal New Zealand Ballet is hitting the road in order to hit the stage during a national tour. A showcase performance, Tutus on Tour sees some of New Zealand’s best dancers perform some of ballet’s most renowned pieces. More information at www.rnzb.org.nz.

The heART of the Matter – celebrating creativity in Clevedon

March 13, 1-9pm, Clevedon Hall, 1 Papakura-Clevedon Road, Clevedon

There are some events which organisers make a song and dance about. But why stop there? From singing and dancing to sewing, playing, painting and more, this celebration of creativity explores art in all its many forms. See www.cvmft.org for details.

Aucklanders from the South side have plenty of options when it comes to entertainment, whether in our region, nearby or online. SOUTH has prepared this quick guide of our picks of what’s to see and do this month.

PLEASE NOTE: Information regarding times and dates of these events was correct at the time this issue went to print. PLEASE NOTE: information regarding times & dates of these events was correct at the time this issue went to print. However, due to the pandemic, events may be postponed or cancelled. In some cases, tickets may be limited or social distancing measures employed as appropriate. Readers are advised to check events online for updates. However, due to the pandemic, events may be postponed or cancelled. In some cases, tickets may be limited or social distancing measures employed as appropriate. Readers are advised to check events online for updates.

Paerata School 100th Jubilee

March 26-27, TIMES TBC, 35 Tuhimata Road, Paerata

One of Franklin’s longest serving rural schools is set to celebrate its 100th anniversary but, with students and teachers all set to move to new premises at nearby Paerata Rise, the occasion will be bittersweet. So, to say a fond farewell, the school will be throwing quite the party with former students (in particular) invited to join centenary celebrations and share fond memories of their days at the old school yard. See www.paerata.school.nz for more information or to register.

Place

March 16 – April 1, Franklin Arts Centre, 12 Massey Road, Pukekohe

Featuring an opening event on March 20 (10.30am-2pm), this exhibition showcases the work of intriguing artists, Shelley Wilkin and Sandy Littlejohns-Clark. Billed as a ‘magnificent blend of vibrant colours’ this exhibition features paintings (by Sandy) and glasswork (by Shelley) which seek to explore a sense of place. Visit www. facebook.com/FranklinArtsCentre for more information.

Karaka Vintage Day

March 21, 9.30am - 4pm, Karaka Sports Park, 372 Blackbridge Road, Karaka

While we’ve all been hoping to turn over a new leaf on leaving 2020 in our rear vision mirrors, there’s nothing like a trip down memory lane. Featuring everything from classic and vintage cars to tractors and antique machinery, this event also includes aerial displays as well as fun activities for children, food and other entertainment. So, get into gear and see www.karakavintageday.co.nz for details.

Charity Big Nite Out – Franklin Country Music Club

March 27, from 7pm, Pukekohe Town Hall, Massey Avenue, Pukekohe

Dust off those boots, Slim, because it’s almost time to get all ‘Dolly-ed’ up and take your love (of country music) to town! Featuring such performers as Tumanako Farrell, Larenz Tate, and top tribute acts, Desperadoes (The Eagles) and Bevan Gardiner (John Denver), this charity show will raise funds to help curb youth suicide. While country music may set the tune, expect a variety of musical styles. Further information accessible via www.facebook.com/ FranklinCountryMusicClub.