Six local singers will perform alongside a 70-piece orchestra at the City of Wanneroo’s free Symphony Under the Stars event this Saturday, showcasing their talent in front of thousands.
They were handpicked through the City of Wanneroo’s Search for a Star competition and will take centre stage this weekend, performing alongside the Joondalup Symphony Orchestra in front of thousands at the city’s fourth free Symphony Under the Stars event.
This year’s winners were Alkimos resident Meagen Reyes (28), Wangara performing arts student Sofia Gale (16), Banksia Grove resident Caoimhe Power (16), Wangara dance student Krystal Biddulph (18), Kingsway student Jade Alexander (16) and Hocking resident Emily Mackenzie (18).
They will each showcase their talent with a performance alongside the orchestra.
Sofia’s has drawn comparisons to artists such as Birdy and Olivia Rodrigo.
Sofia, who has been a student at the Gail Meade Performing Arts Centre in Wangara for more than 12 years, will perform Skyfall by Adele and is excited about the opportunity to perform alongside such a talented cohort.
“What a phenomenal opportunity it is, to give local performers and local singers the chance to perform with such an orchestra,” Sofia said.
“We’ve already started rehearsals now and even when I’m not rehearsing with them, I’m just listening to them play so beautifully. I feel so honoured to be a part of this.”
Reyes, who began her musical career at just two years old, will perform the iconic hits I Will Always Love You and I Wanna Dance With Somebody, both by Whitney Houston.
“I’ve sung for live bands and with backing tracks, but a live orchestra is so different because it’s a full ensemble. They’re relying on you to sing it correctly,” Reyes said.
“Having an event like Search for a Star Wanneroo is such a good opportunity for talents everywhere in Perth, not just young talents but even people like me, being nearly 30.”
JSO music director Michaela Jones said the opportunity to perform alongside a full orchestra and share the night with such accomplished musicians such as Australian Idol finalist Chris Murphy was an amazing opportunity for the talented young performers.
“For the first time in its history, Symphony Under the Stars will feature a full symphony orchestra, with JSO taking centre stage in a thrilling 70-piece performance,” she said.
“The event will showcase the incredible talent of local performers through the Search for a Star competition.”
A range of food trucks, market stalls, and acrobatic and circus performances will also be featured at the event.
The last time the event was held at Kingsway in 2023, it drew a crowd of more than 12,000 people.
This year’s eventwill be held from 5-9 pm on Saturday, February 22.