Photo Credits: AZ Photography
PANAJI
The spirit of Goa came alive in Auckland as Goans in New Zealand recently celebrated São João with a Goan Cultural Evening (GCE) at the Blockhouse Bay Community Centre.
Organised by the Goan Association of New Zealand (GOANZ), the venue was packed to capacity, transformed into a festive haven adorned with fresh palm fronds and a stunning backdrop of a Goan water well at the entrance.
Guests, dressed in vibrant floral attire and traditional Kopels (flower crowns), embraced the São João spirit with joy and nostalgia.
The evening began with a prayer led by Mariano Mendonza, followed by a soulful rendition of the hymn ‘Pav Maie’ by Philo Fernandes and Sushila Pinto, accompanied by Ben Fernandez on keyboard. The master of ceremonies, Alaric Ferns, brought his signature charm and energy to the role, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
THE ENTERTAINMENT
The cultural showcase opened with Allegra D’Souza singing ‘Tuzo Mog’ accompanied by Ben Fernandez on the piano, setting the tone for the evening. This was followed by the delightful ‘Six Shining Stars’, Ariane and Gianna Cordeiro, Ashton and Chelsea Silveira, Rachael Pinto, and Malaika Pereira, who performed a medley of Konkani songs with some lyrics composed by Malaika in keeping with the theme.
A variety of acts followed: the Suares siblings (Alvita, Tiara, Annika, Ashton) with Angelo D’Souza on the accordion, musical duo Olympia D’Souza and Olwyn Almeida (DuOlys), the energetic West Auckland Choir, and the spirited Musical Momsicals featuring Maria Fernandez, Judi Pinto, Sushila Pinto, with Ben and Josh Fernandes. Laughter rang out during a lively comedy act by Arca and Vitus Fernandes with Lazarus Serrao.
The intermission was a feast for the senses. Guests indulged in authentic Goan cuisine: Chouriço Pão, Sorpotel, Sannas, Prawn Rissóis, Beef Xacuti, Beef Tongue Roast, Bolinhas, and more, prepared by Dona Lou’s Goan Delicacies and Sofie’s Goan Delights.
Post-interval, the children took the spotlight with a bright dance performance choreographed by Calvin and mum Vanessa Fernandes. A rousing sing-along session followed, led by Saby Fernandes, Olympia D’Souza, Clifton D’Costa, Ariane and Gianna Cordeiro, accompanied by Ben and Josh Fernandes on keyboard and cajón. The entire hall swayed and sang in unison, transported back to Goa’s beautiful sunny shores.
MC Alaric Ferns kept the momentum going, involving the audience and ensuring everyone felt part of the celebration. The second half featured stellar performances by the GOANZ Choir, ‘The Susegad Kantarists Choir’, a duet by Maxy and Severine Vaz (who travelled from Wellington with their two sons), Ashton Silveira’s solo on the sax, solo songs by Agnelo Mascarenhas and Ariane Cordeiro.
This year’s event introduced a unique competitive twist with the theme ‘Traditions of Goa’. Ten performance groups took to the stage in competition, while four additional individual acts were showcased non-competitively. A panel of mystery judges embedded in the audience evaluated the groups based on set criteria, adding to the excitement and suspense.
The Best Kopel competition was another highlight. Judged by Lazarus Serrao, the prize was too close to call, with Stephanie D’Costa and Selma Pinto both taking home honours for their exquisite, hand-crafted floral crowns, crafted from seasonal fresh flowers as is traditionally done in Goa.
With just two points separating the top contenders, the Six Shining Stars emerged victorious, with Musical Momsicals and Two Maestros taking the second place. Johnrae and Shirley Tannen presented the winners with their trophy and prizes.
THE ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Speaking after the event, Joel Pereira, President of GOANZ, expressed heartfelt gratitude and said the entire team had been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and appreciation from the community.
“The entire GOANZ Committee, Sushila Pinto, Lazarus Serrao, Ashley Rodrigues, Cally Vaz, and Alaric Ferns, along with our families, worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this evening a success,” said Joel.
“It takes hours of meticulous planning to successfully organise these large scale events. It’s events like these that strengthen our cultural bonds, bring our community together in unity and keep our Goan heritage alive in New Zealand.”
Johnrae Tannen, Director of JR Finance and long-time GOANZ supporter, was also thanked in a special way for his generous sponsorship which helped make the event possible.
