THE talent line-up for this year’s Christmas by Starlight concert has been released, with Christine Anu and Thirsty Merc leading the bill.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the star-studded of modern music mixed with traditional carols would ensure a great night.
“The calibre of talent we have for this year’s locally-produced free concert will make it one of our best yet, from Twenty Good Reasons and summertime hit-makers Thirsty Merc, to multi-Aria award winning urban pop artist and national favourite Christine Anu,” Cr Williams said.
“They are joined by some of Australia’s other finest voices including top musical theatre star Amanda Harrison of Les Miserables and Wicked fame, jazz vocalist Emma Pask, The Voice Australia’s finalist Ellen Reed, opera singer Billy Bourchier, orchestrator and singer Craig Allister Young, souls and blues singer Angela Fabian, The Voice Kids 2014 winner Redlands’ own Alexa Curtis and young Redlands soprano Leah Lever.
“Latin American band Chukale will get everyone on their feet and bringing it all together is internationally-renowned musical director, pianist and composer John Foreman, known for his work on the Sydney 2000 Opening ceremony, Australian Idol and many other major events.”
Cr Williams said the concert, which last year saw 10,000 people enjoy the festivities, would also feature well-known and emerging local talents.
“Local stars Alexa and Leah will be joined by other Redlands performers including Quandamooka Dancers, Jeremy Saywell, The Queensland Festival Chorus, Vocal Manoeuvres Children's Chorus and vocalists, Redland City Choir as well as Redland Dance and Strictly Dance, with more still to be confirmed.
“So mark Christmas by Starlight down as a family must-do.
“Come along, spread out a picnic blanket, enjoy the great food and drink stalls and kid’s activities and listen to all of your Christmas favourites.”
Christmas by Starlight gates will open from 3pm on Sunday, December 18, at Sirromet Winery, with the concert starting at 6pm and ending with a fireworks spectacular about 8.15pm.
Entry is free. People will have the opportunity to make a gold coin donation to support programs combatting domestic and family violence.
Ample parking is available however people will be able to leave the car at home and catch one of the free buses leaving from key points.
A courtesy ferry service will also be available to North Stradbroke Island from Cleveland after the concert thanks to Stradbroke Ferries. Timetables will be announced.
Check council’s website www.redland.qld.gov.au/cbs for updates on Christmas by Starlight including the line-up, what to bring and details on free transport options.
Christmas by Starlight is proudly supported by event partners Sirromet Winery and Vocal Manoeuvres Academy and sponsors Viking Rentals, Energex, Fairfax Media, Alex Gow Funeral Directors, Shoreline Redlands Pty Ltd, Gadens, J.J. Richards, Mr Fireworks and Stradbroke Ferries.
