New musical, spiritual initiative shares positive messages such as unconditional love, in Auckland
Some of the musicians who perform at Soul Food are well-known locally, and a diversity of instruments and styles is presented. Pictured here is North Shore-based classical guitarist Cheryl Grice.
Called “Soul Food,” the gathering – held at the brand new Te Oro music and arts centre in Glen Innes– combines readings from the world’s great faiths with reflections from leading philosophers, interspersed with live and recorded music by some of the region’ most noted performers, along with exciting up-and-coming talent.
The internationally acclaimed program, originally founded in Melbourne, marks its tenth anniversary this year; but this is the first year it has come to New Zealand. It is run on a volunteer basis and is free for anyone to attend.
The readings and music are augmented by photographs and videos that illustrate particular themes – generosity, the equality of men and women, purity of heart, unconditional love – all set against a candle-lit background.
“Our first event earlier this year at Auckland University was a great success, with participants coming from all backgrounds and walks of life” says Josefine Watterson, who organises the events with the support of the Auckland Baha’i community.
Nick Moss, a Glen Innes local, attended the first Auckland Soul Food event earlier this year and is looking forward to the next event, titled ‘Visions of Oneness’, in November. “It helps me reflect on the month, I guess it’s that internal reflection where you just think about things,” he says. “Sometimes in life it’s easy to just keep ploughing through the challenges of every day, but this removes you from the everyday; it questions our existence, it prompts you in a way that provides insight and wisdom.
“Obviously it draws on all religions throughout history, and some of the most amazing concepts that the world has ever known, so from that point of view it’s a great combination of things which I haven’t found anywhere else,” he says.
“It’s only about an hour, but it can be really powerful. And it’s fantastic to see both established and up-and-coming artistic talent being showcased in such an ideal setting.”
The next Soul Food event will be held at Te Oro music and arts centre at 2pm on November 7th. Free tickets are available from www.eventfinder.co.nz/soulfood
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