Get futuristic and funky this New Year's Eve

Wellingtonians can get futuristic and funky and welcome in the New Year in style at Rhythm and Beats, the free event for all ages in Civic Square.

This year's Rhythm and Beats New Year's Eve celebration features Olmecha Supreme, a large ensemble led by musician extraordinaire Captain Imon Starr (Rhombus, Nuvonesia and the Roots Foundation). They promise to take the crowd on a voyage through sound with afro-futuristic roots music.

Lending able support are the Aviators, an eight-piece funk band heavily influenced by classic soul legends. Their smooth vocals and impressive solos are hard to resist.

City Council Event Co-ordinator Melody Scales says that around 10,000 people are expected to enjoy the entertainment.

"Rhythm and Beats has lots of fun for all the family. Last year's event was cancelled due to bad weather so we're keeping our fingers crossed for better luck this year. We think that Wellingtonians will more than make up for missing out last year and turn out in their droves."

The fun starts at 8pm, and there will be roving entertainment such as face painting and balloon sculpting, and a special New Year's countdown at 9pm for the younger members of the family unable to last until midnight.

Melody says there's lots of entertainment for the kids. "And coffee will be available for the older members of the family feeling a bit tired but determined to last until midnight."
F
rom 9pm to midnight there will be non-stop entertainment with a performance from a dynamic Korean drumming group up first, before the Aviators and then Olmecha Supreme take the stage. The festivities finish at 12.30am.

Rhythm and Beats is an alcohol-free event.

ENDS

© Scoop Media