ON THIS DAY IN OUR HISTORY: A Highlander in London

In 1988, a Huli dancer from the Highlands of Papua New Guinea prepared backstage for a performance in London. The dancer was part of "The Music Village," a vibrant cultural showcase held at the Commonwealth Institute.

This event was the centerpiece of the Institute's "Pacific Way" program, designed to immerse Londoners in the atmosphere and excitement of the South Pacific. "The Music Village" featured a colorful summer festival filled with music and dance, highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Four distinct South Pacific groups were featured at the festival, including representatives from the Melpa and Huli communities of Papua New Guinea. The "Pacific Way" program itself was established with broader objectives: to foster cultural development, ensure enduring cooperation between Britain and the South Pacific nations, and create practical avenues for interaction between the two regions.