Contact Energy Saturday in the Park
09/22/2012 11:00
Pacific/Auckland
Pioneer Park was the destination for the 2011 procession and a fun afternoon at Saturday in the Park.
The sun shone and there was very little wind as about 10,000 people lined Centennial Avenue and Tarbert Street to watch the procession.
Crowds then flowed in to the park to enjoy the eclectic range of entertainment.
This family afternoon extravaganza was packed with fun and everyone had a chance to choose their favourite float in the Best Float Competition.
Crowds were treated to a mix of entertainment from –
“Lipstick”, a “dream team” of Southland’s finest female vocalists and entertainers; Shane Price, penny-farthing rider; juggler Shad Rutherford; magician Wayne McEwan; Sky Circus with her special blend of acrobatics, contonrtion and hula hooping; and last but not least, Heft Geoff with unusual and stupefying acts.
Between 3.30 and 4.15pm there was a break for the crowning and prize-giving, as well as the official festival week opening speeches.
The younger age group, and the not so young, enjoyed the sight of the Stilt Walkers and cheeky clowns and for the younger age group there was the treat of continuous Face Painting and Balloons.
Wood chopping demonstrations featured present and former champions and bands competed for the Crag An Or trophy.
Within the Park there was a vast array of food and wine. Talented local artists and craftspeople showcased their works.
In 2012 Saturday In The Park will be held on Saturday 22 September.
2011 Performers
Lipstick
Toni Biddle, Shannon Cooper - Garland and Maria Tipuna are LIPSTICK.
LIPSTICK are a dream team of Southland’s finest female vocalists and entertainers. They sing, they dance and they rock ‘n’ roll! From sophisticated glamour to power pop this versatile trio can do it all, combining stage skills honed over 50 years of collective performance. Whatever your event, whatever your theme, whoever your audience, LIPSTICK are guaranteed to fill any dancefloor and lift the roof off any venue!
LIPSTICK are also performing at Wool On.
Jodi Direen
At the age of 22, Jody Direen is set to take on the international country music industry with the best she has got. She is determined, hard working, and the real thing when it comes to being a country girl. Jody's debut album “Here We Go” is out now.
“ My music is ultimately influenced by modern American country but with my own unique touch. The lyrical side of things definitely relate mostly to my experiences in New Zealand”.
The Kids Stage
Shane Price - Bikemad Penny Farthing Guy
Shane is an AWARD WINNING Penny Farthing rider and loves to promote his unique skills at festivals and events all over the country. Tricks on a Penny Farthing? - that's Shane's speciality! In 2011 Shane was privileged to represent New Zealand Internationally and is New Zealand penny farthing champion 2008.2009.2010
Skye Circus
Performing circus and burlesque acts in her home theatre in Lyttelton was what Skye did for a living, until she found that theatre in ruins. Skye is now bringing her special blend of acrobatics, contortion and hula hoops to the street in an effort to both keep herself employed, and brighten up your day with her 'Street Circus Burlesque'.
Wayne McEwan - The Magic Guy
Wayne has featured at the Blossom Festival for many years and always brings something new. Come visit with him on the stage for mystifying magic and illusions and lots of fun and surprises
Hefty Geoff
Hefty Geoff is back!!! ... NZ's premiere side show act, be stunned by his many unusual and stupifying acts - sword swallowing, bed of glass, human blockhead - prepare to be amazed and amused
Shad Rutherford - Entertainer
NZ's most versatile variety act - unicycle, juggling, balloon twisting, balancing - you name it - he can do it.. And he will!!!! Watch out for Shad on Stage and roving out and about
Pirate John the Stilt Walker
Watch out for Pirate John - he's kinda hard to miss - cos he's so tall! John will be roving with tall tales from the pirate ships to entertain all the little pirates and princesses of the festival.
