A casting call has gone out for Townsville performers to dazzle a crowd of around 15000 with the big man, Santa himself in the months to come at this year's Carols by Candlelight.
Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said Council was calling on star-studded locals to feature in a pre-show showcase, as well as the main show of Council's highly anticipated December event.
"Townsville's performing arts scene is extremely well regarded, so we're chasing those talented performers to join this year's carols cast and show the city what they can do," Cr Greaney said.
"Whether you're a solo performer or part of a group like a local dance school or young up and coming performers that could feature in our pre-show, or a well-known performer ready to dazzle the crowd and be backed by the 1 RAR Band and the Carols by Candlelight Choir in the main show - we want to hear from you.
"Every year we have a terrific lineup of different genres, backgrounds and ages – there really is something for everyone, including being a member of our carols choir.
"If you have something special to offer – from a dance group, vocal ensemble, solo or group performance, or even a school group, you could be up on stage as part of the pre-show, so don't miss out on applying."
Carols by Candlelight Vocal Director, Tracey Osmond, said she was thrilled to encourage as many performers as possible to embrace such a wonderful opportunity.
"It's not every day you get to perform on a stage of this scale, in front of such a huge crowd, while also giving back to our Townsville community. For our vocalists, sharing the stage with the incredible 1RAR band is a truly unforgettable experience," Ms Osmond said.
"We are so fortunate to have their support, it makes this event all the more special."
Councillor Greaney said applications were open for three categories that would make up the Carols by Candlelight event on Sunday 7 December, including Carols by Candlelight Choir members, pre-show auditions and main show auditions.
"While Christmas is still four months away, these events involve an enormous amount of coordination and planning, so we have to start organising for the popular family event now," Cr Greaney said.
"Over the years we've had some of our finest local performers really prove themselves up on the Big Top stage, and I think this year will continue the tradition as we welcome new acts and performers.
"This year we have even opened up our main show to performers of all ages, whereas previously it was 18 years and over - so I'm excited to see the calibre of young talent we have in our community come forward.
"Carols attracts around 15,000 people to the event at Riverway, it's one of the most popular and certainly one of the most loved events on the calendar."
To apply, it is as simple as visiting the Carols by Candlelight event on What's On Townsville and filling out the online form before the closing date.
Applications for the main show auditions close on Wednesday 3 September.
Applications to be part of the preshow entertainment close on Sunday 28 September.
Applications to be part of the choir close on Sunday 5 October.
