Search for a Yom Ha’atzmaut star

YOM Ha’atzmaut in Melbourne is set to take on a new format this year with the Zionist Council of Victoria (ZCV) announcing it will host a family carnival, a community-wide talent show and a gala event.

To be held at Luna Park, the family festival will feature rides, activities and Israeli food, as well as the culmination of the Kochav Nolad (a star is born) talent competition.

The winner of the Australian Idol-style event will perform at the gala show being staged at St Kilda Town Hall later that evening.

“It’s an opportunity for young Jewish people to show their talent, and to be discovered,” ZCV executive director Ginette Searle said.

“We’re delighted that we’ll be able to present fantastic emerging talent to the community and we’re sure we’ll discover hidden stars.”

Competition entries are now open across junior vocal (years 4 to 8), senior vocal (years 9 to 12) and dance, for ensembles with a maximum of six dancers aged between years 4 and 12.

Audition DVDs can be submitted until March 4. A short list will be compiled shortly after, and eight finalists per category given the opportunity to work alongside musical director Adam Starr.

The videos will also be uploaded onto The AJN’s website where readers will have the chance to vote for their favourite act.

The winner of the online vote will also perform at the gala show.

Kochav Nolad is being co-hosted by the United Jewish Education Board. General manager Deon Kamien said the organisation was “thrilled” to be working alongside the ZCV for the initiative.

“We see immense value in supporting and encouraging the young talent in our diverse and talented community,” he said.
“We think that this competition is a wonderful opportunity for people from all parts of the community to join in the Yom Ha’atzmaut celebrations and celebrate Israel.”

Enquiries: (03) 9272 5544; www.zcv.org.au; zcv@zcv.org.au.

DALIA SABLE

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