Carterton Events Centre is celebrating the launch of its new series of gigs catering for bands and local musicians looking for a smaller, more intimate venue.
Te Mahau Gigs, named after the Events Centre’s foyer, is an initiative from the Events Centre Team inspired by the gap in the Wairarapa venue scene for those wanting a smaller, more intimate setting for live performances.
The first event in the series was Jenny Mitchell’s The Bush and the Birds Tour held on 23 June to a sold-out foyer space of 80 seats. Kitted out with ambient lighting and a raised stage area, the venue provided the perfect space for both the performers and the audience.
“Having a more intimate space to play our show was such a treat,” said Miss Mitchell. “The lighting and atmosphere allowed us to deliver such a great show for the audience and we loved the general vibe of the foyer and the amazing staff!”
Erin Banks, Events Centre Team Leader said the series was one of many initiatives the Events Centre Team has been working on to utilise all its spaces and ensure they’re accessible to all.
“We’re one of many events centres around New Zealand with a beautiful atrium space that is underutilised. This gives us an opportunity showcase an architecturally designed space while providing a smaller, fit for purpose venue for our local artists,” said Ms Banks.
“We’ve got our amazing auditorium which fits up to 450 people for standing gigs and while that’s great for many of our shows, some up-and-coming artists find the large space daunting, or struggle to sell that number of tickets, and sometimes it’s not actually the best venue for artists who need a more intimate space for their work
“The name ‘Te Mahau’ means entranceway or verandah, so it’s very fitting that we can provide that gateway for emerging artists still building up their fanbase.”
The second gig in the Te Mahau Gigs Series ‘Aro’, is scheduled as part of a Matariki celebration. Aro is a refreshing performance including elements of folk, soul, haka, and a touch of jazz to bring audiences of all ages together in a celebration of the natural world that surrounds us. Aro perform songs in a mix of Te Reo Māori and English, blending the two worlds of Charles and Emily in song.
Aro at Te Mahau
- Aro: Friday, July 14 – 7:30 pm, Te Mahau, Carterton Events Centre.
- Adult $25.00; Child $15.00; Concession $20.00
- Visit www.cartertonec.co.nz/whats-on for more info and to buy tickets.