Stella goes to Hollywood

Stella Maris

Rotorua's Stella Maris is off to Hollywood to chase her dream of becoming a global singing sensation.

The 18-year-old musician is one of 18 selected to represent New Zealand at the World Championship of Performing Arts in Los Angeles in July. Contestants from 40 countries will compete for titles in the singing, dancing, modelling, acting, comedy and instrumental categories at the prestigious event.

Stella, who is studying contemporary music performance at Waiariki Institute of Technology, is the only person from the Rotorua region who has been selected to attend the competition. She will compete in the singing and songwriting category and the instrumental section.

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Stella said she was thrilled by the news, after she auditioned about a month ago.

"I think I screamed when I found out," she said.

"I'm so excited, it's such an amazing opportunity to go overseas and show them what I've got, it's really great exposure for me. I honestly can't wait."

Stella said she was also delighted at the chance to travel overseas, something she hadn't done before.

She hoped she would have time during the two-and-a-half week trip to do some sightseeing in Hollywood.

"Coming from a small town, getting to go to LA, such a big, busy city, that's a huge privilege. I can't believe it."

Since primary school Stella has had a huge passion for singing, dancing and being on stage, she said.

Her ultimate dream is to become a professional singer, living overseas and sharing her music on a global scale.

"My dream is to share my music with the world.

"I love being able to make people happy through my music and seeing their reactions, it's a feeling like no other."

For the next few months Stella will be busy raising the $8500 she needs to get to Los Angeles. The trip to compete in the competition was not funded, she said.

Stella will be holding a fundraising concert at Okere Falls Store on April 24.

She encouraged people to come and support her and said people interested in contributing towards her trip could contact her on getstellatola@hotmail.com. For more information visit her Facebook page, facebook.com/StellaMarisMusic.