Thousands of public school students have been left disappointed by the cancellation of Star Struck 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The annual arena extravaganza, presented by the NSW Department of Education, stars 3000 young singers, dancers and musicians from the Hunter and Central Coast regions. Four performances were scheduled to take place on June 12 and 13 at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre.
Students had already auditioned to take part and were starting to learn their dance, singing or acting routines.
One parent on social media described the news as "devastating'. Her daughter is, she said, in year 12 and had been chosen to perform as a featured artist at the event for the first time.
"Totally understand the decision but so sad," she said.
Star Struck organisers had this to say in a statement:
"After careful consideration, the decision has been made that Star Struck will not be proceeding in 2020. We will keep you informed of any further information regarding Star Struck in 2021 when it is possible to do so. Thank you to all schools, teachers, parents, sponsors and the wider Star Struck community for your support of this event and we look forward to working with you in the future."
The event was first held in 1983 and is touted as "a celebration of what public education has to offer and the opportunity to see the dedication, commitment and creativity of the teachers who nurture that talent".
It is a showcase of dance, drama and music performed by students from kindergarten to year 12 that fosters an appreciation of the performing arts, bringing together students from very small primary schools to large high schools. In addition to on-stage roles, students also participate in stage management, choreographic and props design.
Many Star Struck alumni have gone on to become professional actors, singers and dancers. Chart-topping singer and songwriter Morgan Evans is one. Broadway star David Harris is another. Then there is Catherine Britt, Kirsty-Lee Akers, Greg Gould and Charlie Delaney (singing); Tom Handley and Ali Calder (theatre); Michelle Lim-Davidson (acting); and Dan Wilson (director).
