World Choir Games Unveils Star-Studded Creative Team
As anticipation builds for the 13th World Choir Games, we're delighted to turn the spotlight onto the star-studded team behind the creative elements in the Games’ massive Opening and Closing Ceremonies.
Over 250 choirs have now registered for the event, which means that on Wednesday 10 July, around 10,000 participants will be welcomed to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland in spectacular fashion. Spark Arena will transform into an Olympic-style stadium with an event that features an international flag parade, national anthems and a breathtaking show devised by a celebrated lineup of creators, directors and producers.
Opening and Closing Ceremonies to celebrate togetherness
Organisers will soon unveil the event’s Official Song, composed by NZ Music Hall of Fame inductee Don McGlashan. With further lyrics and translation by Hana Mereraiha, the song celebrates the importance of breath, voice and togetherness, and will act as the heartbeat of the Games. The song will be performed at the Closing Ceremony by beloved New Zealand musicians Marlon Williams (Ngāi Tahu, Ngāi Tai) and Ria Hall (Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui).
A highlight of the 2024 Opening Ceremony, and the whole Games, will be the spectacular ‘Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand’ show. Steering the show's creative team is director Malia Johnston, perhaps best known for her long-time role as Show Director for the World of WearableArt (WOW), as director of the opening ceremony for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, or as the mastermind behind dance organisation Movement of the Human. Johnston will be joined by show designer Rowan Pierce, with soundscape and music created by award-winning composer Eden Mulholland.
Collaboration between creative team members "adds a whole extra layer"
Kura Te Ua (Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri, Te Aitanga a Māhaki, Te Whakatōhea, Tūhoe), who is also Artistic Director and Kaihaka of kapa haka dance group Hawaiki TŪ, will be the show's guest choreographer and concept advisor. Pak Peacocke, a creative force behind iconic events such as NZ Fashion Week, Christmas in the Park, NZ Comedy Festival and the Aotearoa Music Awards, assumes the role of Production Manager.
With Spark Arena situated on mana whenua land, tikanga advisor Otene Hopa (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāpuhi, Waikato) will work with the team across all the Games’ ceremonies, ensuring that a te ao Māori perspective is woven into each celebration.
Artistic and Games Director John Rosser says, “It has been a genuine joy to bring this show team together. Each member brings huge talent and experience to the project, but the collaboration between them adds a whole extra layer. As for the song, I always had confidence Don would write something very special, and he has. I can’t wait for the choral world to experience both of these offerings.”
The World Choir Games 2024 will take place in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland from 10 to 20 July. Tickets to ceremonies, competition sessions, and concerts will go on sale in late April. Keep an eye on the World Choir Games Facebook page or sign up to our email newsletter to stay informed!