For 21 years, Lakeside concerts have brought top international acts to Rotorua for the annual free outdoor concert in front of thousands.
But next year, the show will take a new direction by featuring a lineup of acts with local connections, who organisers say are all of international quality.
Lakeside2018 - WHENUA #it'sabouthome was officially launched last night at a function at the Millennium Hotel for sponsors and invited guests.
Lakeside Concert Charitable Trust chairman Ian Edward said there was no question Lakeside had achieved recognition as a premier community concert.
"It is the envy of many cities and towns that we have been able to produce concerts of international quality but now is the time for a different direction and like so often in life when you are looking for change, it is often staring you right in the face."
Mr Edward said it was the original philosophy of former deputy mayor and concert supporter, the late Johnny Lepper, to bring international artists to Rotorua so families would not have to spend big money to see them.
"That philosophy drove Lakeside the last 21 years. Now is the time to look at our own people and tell our own stories and use the experience and technical knowledge to put our own people on an international stage."
Richard Anaru.
Mr Edward said accomplished musical director Richard Anaru was approached to come up with a concept.
"He will use the skills of locals, including TV producer and director Piripi Curtis, to add a visual dimension as a trail-blazing concert for Lakeside."
The show will include three large screens - including the backdrop and either side of stage - which will give a seamless video appearance allowing the use of graphics to bring each song to life.
Mr Edward said next year's show would be produced on the same budget as always, including the fireworks spectacular.
"It's our people, our stories."
Last year's Lakeside concert at Rotorua's Village Green.
Mr Anaru has been involved in bands and orchestras in about 12 Lakesides, including the last seven in a row.
Mr Anaru said he had focused on finding players and artists who were either from Rotorua or had whakapapa linked to Rotorua.
The show will be hosted by The Hits radio personality and te reo speaker Stacey Morrison who will tap into Rotorua's bilingual city push.
Moana Maniapoto. Photo/File
The artists include New Zealand Music Hall of Fame member Moana Maniapoto who will be performing as Moana and the Tribe, rising vocal group Maimoa featuring Rotorua singer and dancer Turanga Merito, the popular Modern Maori Quartet and rising singer/song-writer Alayna Powley, who is fresh back from New York and recently achieved 3 million Spotify streams.
Modern Maori Quartet. Photo/File
Alayna Powley. Photo/File
Mr Anaru said other local acts included funk band Strangely Arousing whose debut album made it to the top five on the New Zealand Music Charts and "the hardest-working solo act in town", Kelly Makiha.
Strangely Arousing rocks the crowd. Photo/File
Lakeside's tradition of having a classical element will remain with pianist Noelle Dannenbring as well as several other surprise acts which will be revealed closer to the time.
A 12-piece backing ensemble has been hand-picked and features players with a fresh look and feel.
"I could not be happier with how the show is shaping and the co-operation my team has received in organising this mighty event. There is a genuine excitement among the performers and technical team that will translate into something quite proud and spiritual on our fabulous night.
"Lakeside 2018 WHENUA #it'sabouthome is all about us. It's all about you, who you are and what you want to be. I hope a generation of kids feel inspired by the performers on stage. This show will make you proud to be from Rotorua."
The concert will be held on the Village Green on Saturday, February 17.
Among the lineup * Host Stacey Morrison * Moana Maniapoto * Maimoa featuring Turanga Merito * Modern Maori Quartet * Strangely Arousing * Alayna Powley * Kelly Makiha * Noelle Dannenbring
