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Unuia wins Te Mire ‘Atu
Saturday 10 April 2021 | Written by Alana Musselle | Published in Local, National
Composer and singer Poti Maeva perform his song at Te Mire 'Atu at the National Domes on Thursday night. The annual event had eight composers competing. Maeva finished second behind Tuaine Unuia. More on p3. ALANA MUSSELLE/ 21040921
Judges had a difficult time selecting an overall winner at the Composers Competition with each contestant showcasing an excellent display of talent.
Singer and songwriter Tuaine Unuia won this year’s Te Mire ‘Atu title under the Rarotonga National Auditorium domes on Thursday night.
Eight talented singers and composers took to the stage in the annual singing and song composing competition.
A little rain did not stop both the performers and audience from experiencing an enjoyable night of entertainment.
Te Mire ‘Atu first hit the stage in 1993 and is an annual event in which both singers and songwriters look forward to sharing with the community their talent and hard work.
With an excellent audience attendance, a magnificent set up of dazzling lights and a regal flower arrangement on stage to frame the performers, the night proved to be a great success.
Event manager Robert Ioaba said it was a good night. “The competition was great and it was pleasing to see our new Maori compositions released, shaped with excellence around this year’s theme,” which was ‘Two hundred years of the Gospel’.
Champion Tuaine Unuia being presented his trophy for best lyrics. 21040923
Tuaine Unuia took the crown for Te Mire ‘Atu 2021 for best lyrics and best arrangement, and received $1500 in prizemoney. In second place was Poti Maeva who took home $1000, and in third place was Janet Paretoa, who received $700. Every contestant received vouchers sponsored by Vodafone Cook Islands.
Judges had a difficult time selecting an overall winner with each contestant showcasing an excellent display of talent. However, it was esteemed singer and songwriter Tuaine Unuia who took home the winning title.
The MC Papatua Papatua performs a song. 21040922
“I am so humbled and blessed to have won the Mire Atu competition 2021,” said Unuia, thanking his many supporters on the night, via Facebook the following day.
All the “sleepless nights, planning the music and ensuring that this song will represent everyone in the Cook Islands” definitely proved worthwhile, he said.