Talk about Topp Twins

RURAL CHARM: The Topp Twins as The Gingham Sisters. PHOTO: SALLY TAGG, COURTESY DIVA PRODUCTIONS

Te Manawa is in the last month of The Topp Twins - An Exhibition for New Zealand.

After October 29, the exhibition will pack up and, much like the Topp Twins themselves, begin its tour of other venues around New Zealand.

It's been really rewarding to see visitors respond to the interactive elements of the exhibition. The shelves are crowded with folded paper cranes, reflecting the Twins' own peace activism, a whole wall has been covered by people naming the things they think are worth fighting for.

Te Manawa's schedule of public programmes still has plenty to offer.

Throughout the exhibition's stay, academics and local groups have examined how the Topp Twins have become woven into our culture and the different areas of New Zealand life they influence.

This continues on October 19 at 6pm, as Rural Women New Zealand builds on the Topp Twins' country roots to celebrate women's role in agricultural and rural communities. Join them for a cuppa and a bikkie and find out who really puts the heart in heartland.

Dr Anita Brady examines how the Topp Twins have come to represent New Zealand in her public talk at 2pm on October 21. She considers their relationship with New Zealand masculinity and other aspects of national identity.

Learn more about these events and find the text of past Topp Twins talks at Te Manawa's website, www.temanawa.co.nz