THE Hunter's biggest youth theatre production will return in 2021, organisers have confirmed.
The popular production was shelved during the pandemic but will hit the stage once more this year with the theme Rise Up.
Operations manager Casey Horner said the concept was originally slated for last year's production in tribute to those who had survived bushfires and floods in the brutal summer before COVID-19 arrived.
"It was symbolic of the rising up from the elements, from people working together to Rise Up from adversity," she said. "Now after another year of hardship and change the theme seems equally fitting, and a positive way to come together once again.
Photos: All the photos from Star Struck 2018
"As 2020 changed people's lives in ways we never thought possible, we felt it right to plan a show that reflected change and acknowledged the current social, economic and physical landscape in our communities."
Rehearsals of several pieces have begun for some performers already.
In its 29th year, Star Struck is a NSW Department of Education arts event designed to show off the dance, drama and music talents of students from Newcastle, the Hunter and the Central Coast.
It is designed to give students hands-on experience both centre stage and backstage.
Flashback:More photos from Star Struck through the years
Roughly 3000 students will be part of the production in 2021, which will undergo some changes.
The performance will tighten to 90 minutes without an interval, with performers split into two casts.
Star Struck will hit the Newcastle Entertainment Centre in June.
Performances by Cast A are slated for 11.30am on Friday June 18 and 7pm Saturday June 19. Cast B performs 7pm on the Friday and 1.30pm on the Saturday. Tickets are on sale through Ticketek.
