Top recording artists from around the country bring music to the words of renowned and much-loved New Zealand writer Hone Tuwhare

After the sell-out season of Baxter at the 2000 Festival, musician Charlotte Yates was commissioned by Toi Maori Aotearoa to adapt the concept to the work of this acclaimed poet and author.

From Hinemoana Baker to Te Kupu (Upper Hutt Posse), WAI to Goldenhorse, 12 recording artists transform Tuwhare's words into lyrics for songs that cover a wide range of styles, capturing the diversity in both his writing and in New Zealand music. Each poem is moulded to the artist's characteristic style , Don McGlashan uses euphonium and piano to interpret the moody "Rain", while strawpeople "could easily count its contribution...among its finer moments" (Otago Daily Times). Mahinarangi Tocker, Dallas Tamaira (Fat Freddy's Drop) and Graham Brazier also lend their unique voices to this project.

Hone Tuwhare has been celebrated with numerous accolades including an honorary doctorate and one of the inaugural Prime Minister's Awards for Literary Achievement in 2003.

Set in a relaxed, cabaret-style atmosphere, Tuwhare will be an uplifting musical performance celebrating a true icon of New Zealand literature.