Thursday, October 19, 2017
WHILE in the middle of their debut performance at the Take Notice concert in Opotiki last Thursday, Letisha Lee, 2, was keen to get a closer look. Photos Ross McCullough OB4000-1
Ross McCullough
THE Ukulele Bliss Group from Torere gave their debut performance at the Take Notice concert last week in support of mental health awareness.
It was the first of many planned performances in support of community events.
The group, which has only been established five weeks, was borne out of two nannies active in the Torere community who were going through their own struggles and depression, member Kayreen Tapuke said.
She said there were 10 or so members in the group currently, which was about promoting those that needed support.
Before last Thursday’s performance, group member of the Ngai Tai Iwi Authority Taff Kingi, said prior to the Ukulele Bliss Group being formed, a lot of its elderly members were doing nothing at home, but could now get out and interact socially while learning to play.
“We’re best at entertaining and having good times,” Mrs Tapuke said.
For last week’s debut performance, Kingi drew the short straw and was without a ukulele, having to use a guitar instead.
He said the new group was planning to do some fundraising to get another three of four ukuleles to grow its membership further.
Mr Taff said it was the Ngai Tai Iwi Authority’s remit to support anything positive in the community. like last week’s event in Opotiki.
“That’s the only reason we’re doing this – for the community. It’s a worthy occasion to support this day.”
He said the Ukulele Bliss Group was about healing and well-being for its people. “That’s what we (Ngai Tai Iwi Authority) believe in, moving them into positive spaces,” Kingi said.