An ambitious programme to identify, recognise and reward the ‘Ultimate Entertainer of the Year’ as the ‘Star of New Zealand’ has gained momentum over the past two weeks with excitement mounting as regional contests draw near.
Show Manager and V4U Entertainments Limited Director Viraf Todywala said the talent search includes dancers, singers, musicians, magicians, stunt artistes and cheerleaders. Those with other talents could also participate in the contest,” he said.
A number of regional competitions will be held from this week, leading up to the first stage of audition and quarterfinals on July 10 from 11 am at Dorothy Winstone Centre, Auckland Girls Grammar School.
He claimed that more than 260 aspirants were on the fray from Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Hamilton, New Plymouth and Rotorua had thus far registered to participate in the competition.
As mentioned in these columns earlier, Christchurch based Indian Social & Cultural Club will conduct its ‘Indian Mid-Winter Ekta’ programme on July 3 at the Rudolf Steiner School, St Martins to determine the participant from the South Island.
Details can be obtained from Vice-President Thomas Kurian on 021-2397167.
MC Arts Director Malaina Curtis will coordinate the auditions in New Plymouth on July 11 at Quality Hotel. Further information can be obtained from her on (06) 7532746 or 0272-236071. Email: mc@atrs19.com.
“Winners of Indian Star of Christchurch and New Plymouth will be our events Wild Card Entry since they will qualify for the finals irrespective of the verdict of the judges and public voting,” Mr Todywala said.
Selected candidates will perform on Triangle Television on Saturdays between July 31 and September 4 at 10.30 am.
“The contests can be viewed on Stratos (Sky TV), Freeview, You Tube and the event website www.starofnewzealand.co.nz. Indian Newslink, Radio Tarana, GPlus and Triangle TV will announce the winners,” Mr Todywala said.
Following the semifinals on August 14 at Dorothy Wisntone Centre, the grand finale will be held at the same venue on September 25.
The Ultimate Entertainer of the Year (Star of New Zealand) will qualify for a car as the main prize.
Aashirwad Foods Limited, Kshitij Enterprises Ltd and GPlus are among the partners of the programme.
Further information can be obtained on (09) 5769399 or 021-0424245. Website: www.starofnewzealand.co.nz
Photo: Viraf Todaywala performing at a special function.
