More Info →Eartha Kitt Welcomed to Palmerston North

Description: This image was taken for a story that ran in the Manawatū Evening Standard on 2 October 1963. Eartha Kitt, a celebrated singer of the time, was famous for her kittenish voice. Upon her arrival in the city, probably on 30 September, she was welcomed by a Māori performance group from "St Paul's (Feilding)," most likely from Hata Pāora Māori Boys' College.

Front (left to right): Mrs Waaka Kingi; Pearl Lawton; Rennie Kingi; Kaua Kereama
Back (left to right): Bill Kingi; Ned Lawton; Kelly Kereama

Kitt appeared in the Opera House for two shows at 6pm and 8pm, Oct 1 1963. The show, presented by Harry M Miller featured a 20-piece showband and entertainment by magician Ken Littlewood, comedian Ray McGeary and musical acrobat Stan Penrose. Reviews describe Kitt as singing "reclining on a green upholstered chaise-lounge or writhing close to it". Prices for the show were quite expensive for the time, 15/-, 20/-, 25/- and 30/-.