The programme for the 2009 Waikato Times Hamilton Gardens Summer Festival is out now.

The 12th annual Festival will be held 20th February to 1st March in the beautiful Hamilton Gardens. The programme includes a wide range of arts, culture and entertainment covering visual art, music, family events, cabaret, theatre, film, opera, readers & writers, classical music, culinary arts and more. The programme for the 2009 Waikato Times Hamilton Gardens Summer Festival is out now.

The 12th annual Festival will be held 20th February to 1st March in the beautiful Hamilton Gardens. The programme includes a wide range of arts, culture and entertainment covering visual art, music, family events, cabaret, theatre, film, opera, readers & writers, classical music, culinary arts and more.There will be over 40 events giving more than 80 performances over the 10 days, and over 50% of performances are free to attend.

The Waikato Times Hamilton Gardens Summer Festival is one of Hamilton's iconic events, and the biggest community arts event in the Waikato. In 2008 over 62,500 people attended.

Highlights include:
"Ichi Go Ichie: Once in a lifetime" featuring Wa San Bon (Japan) and the Wai Taiko Drummers. This exciting concert will be an electrifying fusion of the visual, physical and musical. From delicate instrumentals to wild, thunderous drum pieces, Ichi Go Ichie also features bamboo flutes, koto (harp), graceful dances and more. Starring two master performers direct from Japan and Hamilton's own Wai Taiko Drummers, this is a chance to experience the music of this exotic land like never before. Ichi Go Ichie is supported by the Asia:NZ Foundation.

"The Imaginary Invalid (Le Malade Imaginaire)". The Hamilton Performing Arts Trusts has re-examined the 1673 play by French playwright Moliere for the modern audience. Expect a sumptuous period extravaganza with the combination of beautiful costumes, comedy, music, and dance. It will be adapted for performance in the Medici Court, making it a truly unique theatre experience.

"La Finta Giardiniera" (The countess who disguises herself as a gardener because of love). Opera Unleashed presents one of Mozart's earliest operas. This tale of disguise, intrigue and wit will be set in the beautiful surrounds of the English Flower Garden.

For more information see www.hamiltongardens.co.nz
Tickets are on sale through Ticket Direct

08/12/08