Thursday, August 15, 2013

Hagen show set to roll this weekend


By JOHNNY POIYA

The world renowned Mt Hagen Cultural Show is on this weekend at the Rabiamul Rugby oval.
Described as the most diverse, colourful, unique and primitive cultural display in the South Western Pacific region, the show is expected to attract a large number of international and local visitors.
Started in 1964 by the colonial Australian Administration to unify all the warring tribes in the region, the show has now gained commercial status, making it a single activity in the country attracting the largest number of international tourists.
Well over 300 international visitors are expected to flock to the Rabiamul field.
During the recent launch of the construction of the provincial headquarters, a prelude of the show was demonstrated when a large number of western Highlanders, Tolai and Manus dancers in traditional regalia entertained the crowd.
Governor Paias Wingti during his first provincial budget announced the closure of the provincial tourism office with the former events chairman Samuel Angimb and his team disbanded for unknown reasons.
Regardless, an interim team under Gabriel Kuntin has been working around the clock to have the event staged with the traditional taste, style and atmosphere it’s seen since since 1964. Governor Wingti said the show was an annual event and it was important for the tourism and hotel industry in the province and it had to be staged regardless of any setbacks.
The Western Highlands Provincial Government is the major sponsor with Daewon Trading another major supporter.

Well over 60 traditional cultural groups from around the country are expected to demonstrate the country’s cultural singsings and dances at the field.
Mr Kuntina said: “Though it was a bit of a rushed job, we got everything in order and we should have a normal Mt Hagen Cultural show on the weekend.”
The show begins Saturday and ends on Sunday.    

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