Music « Dunedin Public Libraries News & Reviews Blog

His foray into the world of adverting was (at the time) trail blazing – who could forget his enduring series of advertisements (with Ray Wolf) for Bic pens and lighters.

As plans begin to take shape for his funeral New Zealanders from all walks of life will pause and reflect over the coming days on how this man touched so many of their lives with his musical talents.

www.dunedinlibraries.govt.nz – sir howard morrison

Topp Twins – Untouchable Girls

August 17, 2009 at 9:51 am | In DVD, DVD Documentary, DVD Film, Music, New Zealand, Reviews | Leave a Comment

I remember going to my first Topp Twins concert at the James Theatre in Wellington back in 1992. I was reluctantly dragged along by my friends, thinking at the time ‘what the heck do I want to go and see this show for’. At the end of the show I walked out suffering with a sore face from laughing so much – from then on I was hooked.

The Topp Twins are cultural icons in New Zealand entertainment. For the last few decades they have entertained us with street busking, television shows, books, live shows and now to top it all off – Topp Twins – Untouchable Girls, a fantastic entertainment documentary that will leave you laughing in the aisles. They have bought us real life characters: The Bowling Ladies, Prue and Dilly Ramsbottom, Ken and Ken, and last but not lest Camp Mother and Camp Leader.

The documentary shows 25 years of New Zealand history. It showcases great footage of protest movements (Maori land occupations, homosexual reform bill and the nuclear-free New Zealand campaign), cultural change, and interviews with well known musicians, comedians and even Helen Clark. It also shows their personal side with home movies and Jools brush with breast cancer.

It has all been put together with great footage of their shows including clips from their television show: Don’t Adjust Your Twinset 1996-2000. It is a real laugh to also look back at the fashions and trends of times gone by.

They have also always been open about their sexuality and this is also bought into their comedy acts and songs. They have shown that these sorts of things don’t matter and that they can still act and entertain the crowds to much applause and laughter.

This movie broke opening day records for a New Zealand movie, and I think it highlights what it feels like to be a true Kiwi. I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, just as well as their live shows. I am sure that there are plenty of our library patrons that would also love to watch this fantastic movie of the Topp Twins and New Zealand history.

Reviewed by Shona

SONGS FOR SATURDAY Sing-along fun with Wonky Donkey, The Sandfly Song and more!

August 17, 2009 at 9:42 am | In Children's, City Library, Free Event, Library_News, Music, New Zealand, Suggestions | Leave a Comment

The talented Craig Smith writes songs especially for children and his albums are recognised for their brilliance.

‘Wonky Donkey’ is the APRA NZ Children’s Song of the Year 2008, and is currently being turned into a children’s book, with other songs now receiving similar attention.

Join us on the weekend as Craig hosts a special performance in the Dunedin City Library that will delight children of any age, but are written with children 3 – 10 years in mind.

CD’s for sale: $23.95. (Includes $5 donation to charity)