The start of the Wānaka Festival of Colour was heralded with Saturday’s (March 29) Community Whānau Day, which transformed the Dinosaur Park and lakefront into a hub of activity and colour.

The day included an array of performances, including a clown show, school and choir performances, circus and aerial displays, interactive art, and creative school installations. 

“What an incredible way to kick off the festival,” Wānaka Festival of Colour festival director Sophie Kelly said.

“Community Whānau Day truly captured the festival spirit – joyful, local, and full of heart.”

The festivities continued into the evening with a packed house at the Pacific Crystal Palace for Creative Juices, an open mic night featuring original music and spoken word. 

The night culminated in a sell-out performance of Animal, a smash-hit show from internationally acclaimed, award-winning circus company Cirque Alfonse.

“Opening with Animal was a total delight, and it was beautiful to see so many smiling faces soaking up the fun,” Sophie said.

“And this is just the beginning – we have an exciting week ahead with something for everyone.”

Yesterday (Monday March 31) the festivities continued, with a range of shows including the sold out Suitcase Show, Speed is Emotional and Reimagining Mozart.

The week ahead is packed with standout performances, Sophie said. 

On Wednesday night (April 2), audiences can experience Jazmine Mary, with their captivating noir-folk sound, and Kommi me ana Tipua, a vocalist performing exclusively in the Kāi Tahu dialect.

On Thursday (April 3), Delaney Davidson brings his signature Ghost Orchestra show to the Pacific Crystal Palace, while Īhaka Martyn’s He Māori? unpacks identity through waiata and wit. 

During the weekend families can enjoy Badjelly, featuring narration by Olivia Tennet and a live score from Tom Broome. 

These are just a handful of the options from the packed programme of theatre, dance, music, poetry, and thought-provoking kōrero running as part of the Wānaka Festival of Colour until Sunday (April 6).

PHOTO: Deanna Gerlach