Southern Stars is set to have a bright future after executive producer Barney Ellevsen confirmed the iconic performance will likely return next year following a blockbuster weekend.
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More than 10,000 people poured through the doors of WIN Entertainment Centre for the musical extravaganza, leaving Mr Ellevsen ‘‘quietly confident’’ that the four performances raised enough to ensure the show will go on in 2015.
‘‘Ticket sales were very strong, which was a great relief,’’ he said.
‘‘The budget has been a great concern all along because of changes to the ways government departments are funded. The show needs to be pretty much self-sustaining.
‘‘I can’t say for certain yet but early budget forecasts are looking very positive for us to have a show next year, which is great news.’’
That news will be music to ears of the shows’ supporters, too, many of whom gave the performances rave reviews on social media using the hashtag #webelieve2014.
‘‘Saw SS #webelieve2014 today with some of my best mates, easily one of the best things I’ve seen in a long time! :) good job guys! xo,’’ Alyssa Marks tweeted.
‘‘#webelieve2014 Southern Stars:marvellous performances by disabled kids,well done you looked spectacular.Koori kids wow! you did us proud,’’ Wayne Rowles said.
Mr Ellevsen, a deputy principal at Keira High School, said giving the performance its own hashtag allowed the students and community to successfully engage with the show and promote it online.
He thanked sponsors and the community for their support but said it was the 3000 public school students and 300-odd teachers who worked tirelessly behind-the-scenes who deserved a special mention.
‘‘Thank you for committing your absolute best efforts and giving 110 per cent. Money can’t buy that level of commitment, your generosity of spirit is what makes that show so special.’’
Sutton Public School was inadvertently left off the list of schools performing in Southern Stars, as published in Friday’s Mercury.