Making its musical mark: Sign of the Takahe

After a $2.8 million post-quake repair, historic Sign of the Takahe is set to make its musical mark as the grand masterpiece finally opens to the public again for a series of summer events.

Organised by local Cashmere resident, event manager and jazz pianist Katie Martin, the free summer series on Sunday afternoons from 20 January to February 10 from 4-6pm will make the most of the iconic venue’s indoor and outdoor space with performances from some of the region’s best jazz musicians. Food and coffee vendors, children’s entertainment and bar services will also be available.

“As a long-term local resident with fantastic memories of good times at the Sign of the Takahe in its pre-quake days, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to share this amazing icon with the wider community,” Katie says.
“Live music will include the River City Jazzmen on Sunday 20 January from 4-6pm and The Mike Bickers Boptet on Sunday 27 January from 4-6pm, with other bands still to be confirmed.”

In October 2018, a Cashmere Primary School Te Pae Kereru open day fundraiser saw more than 2,500 people visit the restored building. “People had some wonderful stories of their memories at The Sign of the Takahe and what the building meant to them,” Katie says.  “They were so excited to visit the site and since then have been talking about how they would love to see this landmark open and used again. So this summer series seems like an ideal way to make that happen.”