Hot on the heels of fellow Rodney performer Lou Collier, Hibiscus Coast’s Joel Granger has also been selected to sing at this year’s Christmas in the Park in the Auckland Domain.
Joel was part of the Kids’ Crew at Coca Cola Christmas in the Park in both 2005 and 2007. He has been again chosen for the Kids’ Crew this year, but will also perform a solo Christmas Carol.
Rodney District Council Arts Advisor Cath O’Brien says Joel will be one of the youngest people to ever perform at Christmas in the Park when he sings Away in a Manger on December 13.
"At just 14 years old, Joel already has had a strong history in the performing arts. This includes appearing on TV3’s ‘Sticky Stars’, winning the junior vocal section of North Shore Performing Arts Competitions Society four years in a row and the South Auckland Junior Vocal 12 and 13 years Championship in 2008," says Cath.
"Joel loves singing so much that he frequently visits Pinehaven Rest Home in Hatfield’s Beach to sing for the residents and his dream is to appear on Broadway."
Joel’s mum Christine is very supportive of her son’s talent, but doesn’t take any of the credit for it. When asked where his talent comes from Christine says it comes from her mother Joel’s grandmother.
This Christmas, Joel will also perform at Carols on the Beach, at Orewa Beach on Sunday December 14.
Earlier in the year, Joel and Amber Johnson came second in the Rodney Live Talent Quest, when they performed a haunting rendition of Scarborough Fair.
Rodney Live is a collaborative project between the Rodney District Council and REAL Music. In May and June, a variety of artists from around the district performed in the talent quest in Rodney’s community halls and theatres.
Rodney District Council and REAL music are currently making plans for Rodney Live 2009. Visit www.rodneylive.co.nz for more information.
More information:
Contact: Cath O’Brien
Phone: 09 426 5169
Email: cath.obrien@rodney.govt.nz