Kokopo to host Mask Festival from July 17-21

 THE annual Mask Festival and Warwagira are scheduled to be staged in Kokopo, East New Britain, in July.

With eight weeks to go, chairman of the festival’s advisory committee John Robin said the 19th festival and the 2013 Warwagira were scheduled for July 17 to 21. 

He said ENB had hosted this festival successfully for a number of years and while there were some doubts about it being held again in the province, the provincial administration was fully supportive of it proceeding this year. 

He said the festival would start on July 17 with the kinavai at Kokopo beach. 

“Over the next few days from then, visitors will experience the rich and diverse culture of PNG represented by distinctive dances from a number of provinces,” Robin said. 

On show too will be the iconic Tolai Tumbuans and Bainings fire dance which showcase the sacred traditions and deep beliefs of the ENB indigenous people. 

The Warwagira will be on July 19, showcasing diverse musical talents of ENB, from the traditional string bands to the more contemporary rock bands, choirs and gospel groups. A junior rock band precedes Saturday’s rock band concert which will be the climax of the event. 

The annual festival is the premier cultural event for ENB and it normally attracts local and overseas visitors. The province is making efforts to make it a major event in PNG’s calendar.