LAUNCESTON’S talented young street performers will get a taste of performing on stage at this year’s Festivale.
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About 12 buskers will take to the KPMG stage at Festivale on Saturday, February 13, to take part in the RAW Young Talent on Stage competition. Each entrant will have six minutes to impress a panel of judges, including former The Voice contestant Matthew Garwood, ABC presenter Belinda King and Chilli FM’s Dan Taylor.
Launceston’s Cameron Grant said he was thrilled with the prospect of performing to a crowd at Festivale.
‘‘I’d never played guitar for an audience before until just recently at the 2015 Carols by Candlelight,’’ he said.
‘‘I’ve been planning on getting a busking licence for a while with a few friends but I think after this I’m going to have to apply and see what I can do in the [Brisbane Street] mall.’’
The top five placegetters will win Theatre North subscription memberships and a gig at the Earl Arts Centre in March. Each of the five will be also considered for a slot at next year’s Festivale.
RAW co-ordinator Travis Hennessy said the competition was not open to just singers. He encourages acrobats, jugglers and other street performers to apply.
‘‘For buskers it’s hard because they’re largely ignored or they get (money) thrown at them and there are some wonderful, wonderful performers in the streets,’’ he said.
‘‘We often don’t have time to give them the time of day so here they are up in the spotlight.’’
To apply, go to the Princess Theatre box office or visit www.theatrenorth.com.au
