The High Commission of New Zealand hosted the movie premiere of “Uproar” on December 7, 2023, at the residence of High Commissioner Dr. Emma Dunlop-Bennett. The red carpet event was adorned with guests dressed in stylish evening wear, including members of the Diplomatic Corps, distinguished guests, friends, and notable personalities such as Wynand Claasen, who captained the Springbok rugby team during the 1981 New Zealand tour. Thando Manana, the third black African player to don a Springbok rugby jersey after unification in 1992, was also in attendance.
High Commissioner Dr. Emma Dunlop-Bennett, nearing the end of her term in South Africa, expressed gratitude to everyone present and extended appreciation to South Africa for hosting her. She highlighted the privilege of her accreditations to Angola, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Malawi, and Zambia.
Reflecting on Nelson Mandela’s first visit to New Zealand as President of South Africa, Madiba had spoken about the canceled game in Hamilton due to protests. The news reached the prison on Robben Island, prompting Madiba’s jubilant response: “It was like the sun had come out.” Hosting this premiere event aligned with the 10-year commemoration since Madiba’s passing.
Wynand Claasen shared some of his experiences from captaining the team during the 1981 New Zealand tour, navigating through protest actions at every game played during that period. However, he acknowledged the positive impact that emerged from those events.
“Uproar,” directed by Paul Middleditch and Hamish Bennett, is a moving and heartwarming comedy centered around the theme of connection and finding one’s place in the world. The story unfolds through the lens of 17-year-old Josh Waaka, growing up in New Zealand in 1981. The rugby-obsessed country becomes divided over the arrival of the South African Springbok team, igniting nationwide protests. Inspired by the protests and a newfound passion for performance, Josh, who has never felt a sense of belonging, embarks on a journey to find his own voice, embracing his community and Maori heritage along the way. This journey becomes a path towards healing for Josh and his family.
by Marion Kate
