Performers ready to shine
Talented Wimmera performers will showcase their skills during the 15th annual Richard Morris Memorial Concert.
The concert, in Horsham Town Hall on Saturday, celebrates the late passionate theatre-goer and his commitment to nurturing talent.
Members of Mr Morris’s family, including his wife Jan, will present a $1000 scholarship in his name at the concert.
Mrs Morris and a team of creative producers will present a medley of genres and scores designed to ‘delight and enthral audiences’.
“We have 20 items and each one really is the cream of the crop when it comes to performances,” Mrs Morris said.
“We try to take something from each production and standout performance throughout the year, so we will have the award-winning Wakakirri performers from Holy Trinity Lutheran College as well as an item from Horsham Arts Council’s Joseph, which was a big hit.
“We will also have a comedy section and Sean Hallam, who was with us at the start 15 years ago, is coming back for the show.
“Sean is a pianist and teacher who started off playing by ear. Richard really encouraged him on and Sean has always had a strong connection to the concert.”
Mrs Morris said the presentation of a Richard Morris Scholarship was always a highlight.
“The scholarship isn’t about rewarding musical excellence, it is more about passion,” she said. “Richard was always so passionate about the arts.
“He was committed to nurturing young talent.
“Of the names we have chosen over the past 14 years, all are still in performing arts. The judges – there is a panel of three each year – are obviously getting something right.”
The concert starts at 8pm and tickets cost $35, or $30 for students-concession. theatre and