Woodlands Idol fundraiser returns

A gala evening of music and food will be held at Woodlands Historic Homestead later this month.

Woodlands Idol 2 will see young musical talent take to the stage for a good cause – money raised will help fund future development at the homestead.

The first Woodlands Idol was held five years ago and raised more than $4000 for the Child Cancer Foundation and for the maintenance of Woodlands.

Auditions were held recently and seven contestants chosen to take part on the night.  “Singers, dancers, musicians; it will be great to see them take to the stage.  We have some local talent as well as contestants from Rototuna, Hamilton, Te Kuiti and Taupo.  It will be a real treat,” says organiser Judy Cole.

All contestants will be winners, she says.  First prize is $600, second is $400, third $200, all with gifts.

There will also be some familiar faces from the first event – Andy Bramwell who was DJ in 2011 will again be on hand.

“When I first approached him he asked if the date was set in concrete, and it was.  It turned out that is his wedding anniversary – he was married at Woodlands – and he wanted to take his wife for a romantic dinner.  But he didn’t want to miss out on the event.  In the end both of them are coming and we’ll set up a cosy table for two in the corner, by the sound desk!” says Judy.

Dinner will be a plated meal by Hamilton caterers Kerr & Labrook.  “They do lovely food, it will be another thing to look forward to.”

Judy, who will be MC on the night, says she decided to hold the event again because of the success of the first one.  “The feedback was wonderful and people kept asking when would I do another.  That one took about a year to organise, and this one has been… ongoing for a wee while now!”

While no specific target is set for the fundraising, she says they will be happy with whatever is achieved.  “Every bit helps – we’re wanting to build a new visitor centre and archives room at the homestead.”

One hundred and 20 people attended the first Woodlands Idol, and she is hoping for a similar number this year.  “Seating will be limited, so it would be good to get in early.”

 

• Woodlands Idol 2will be held at the homestead on Saturday 30 April, seated from 6pm.

Tickets are $60 and available from the Woodlands office.  (Book for a table of 10, pay for nine.)  For more information phone Judy on 8243 421 or Woodlands 8343 687 .