About
Since its inception in the early 1990s, inspired by a popular TV show, Stars in Your Eyes has become a beloved community event, celebrating the diverse talents of our local performers.
The proceeds from Stars in Your Eyes support young musicians in our community, helping to foster the next generation of talent in the Upper Clutha area. Discover some of the many projects we have donated to below.
As we celebrate our 30th edition this year, we remain dedicated to bringing you high-quality, entertaining shows that reflect the spirit and creativity of the Upper Clutha region.
The committee of Wanaka Musicians Inc governs Stars in Your Eyes. Meet the creative team behind this year’s show:
Show Director – Janine Weatherly
Musical Director - Graeme Perkins
Production Manager & Videographer: Mike Balk
Head of Wardrobe: Kathryn Liggins
Join us in celebrating our rich history and the vibrant future of Stars in Your Eyes.
History
Founded by Jamie Robertson, with invaluable help from Dee Sarginson and Steve Brett, the show initially began as a competition but quickly evolved into an entertainment spectacle. Our journey started in the lobby of Clifford's Hotel (now Wānaka Hotel) as part of the Wānaka Snow Fest. Due to growing popularity, we moved to the old Wānaka Town Hall, and later to the Community Hall, allowing us to expand and enhance the show's quality.
In 2001, with the opening of the Lake Wānaka Centre, Stars in Your Eyes received a significant upgrade. We introduced live video projections, advanced sound and lighting systems, and professional set designs, including our iconic arch. These improvements have continuously elevated the audience experience, making each show a memorable event.
Governance
Stars in Your Eyes is governed by a dedicated committee under Wanaka Musicians Incorporated, which has recently achieved charitable status. The committee meets monthly at the Wānaka District Club to ensure the smooth running and continued success of our beloved show.
The vision of Wanaka Musicians Inc is to foster creativity and education in music among young people in the Upper Clutha communities. Stars in Your Eyes is our annual key fundraising activity, with the proceeds going straight back into the community to further music education in the Upper Clutha region. Check out some of the projects we’ve supported over the years below under ‘projects’.
Allow us to introduce the Wanaka Musicians Inc committee members:
Janet Dolan - Chairperson
David Baker - Secretary
Johnny Stumbles - Treasurer
Britt Smith
Izzy Prosser
Jennie Lyall
Marianne Roulston
Michael Balk
Norman Bressanello
Tim Lambeth
Over the past 30 or so years Wanaka Musicians Inc has successfully raised funds to support individuals and projects linked to furthering education in music for young people in the Upper Clutha region. We estimate a total $300,000 has been redistributed among individuals, projects and educational institutions over time. Recipients include: Mt Aspiring College, Hawea Flat School, Holy Family School, Wanaka Primary School, Mountainside Educare, Tarras Primary, Wānaka Preschool, Hawea Kindergarten, Riverside Educate, Mt Aspiring Jazz Band, Classical Chamber Group.
Projects we have recently supported include:
The purchase of instruments for an Aspiring Young Musicians music library
An annual Jamie Robertson scholarship, named for our founder, awarded to a Mt Aspiring College student going on to study music at tertiary level
Support for the purchase of instruments and a music teaching package for Wānaka's newest primary school, Te Kura O Take Kārara
Ukeleles for several pre-school centres
Funding becomes available after every Stars In Your Eyes show and we'll publish details here about how to apply for support.
