A grand performance by the Broken Hill Choir of Hope and Inspiration was punctuated by an even grander announcement in Patton Park on Saturday night.
The choir’s beloved leader - School of Hard Knocks front man Jonathon Welch - told the crowd gathered in the park that he wanted more of Broken Hill, and he committed to coming back to the Silver City for the Fringe Festival for the next three years.
Fringe Festival co-ordinator Ann Rogers, of Robinson Community College, could not contain her excitement yesterday, saying the opera singer’s announcement caught her totally by surprise. “To tell you the truth, I had tears in my eyes it was so unexpected,” Ann said yesterday. “I was very humbled by his announcement.”
She said Jonathan had a big impact everywhere he went over the weekend, his charisma and talent had locals in awe. He even ripped out an impromptu “happy birthday” to a lucky local celebrating at the Royal Exchange Hotel. “We had a great discussion and he has got some fantastic ideas that he is going to share with us,” Ann said.
“We will be talking more over the coming months.” Ann said she now hoped to lure other distinguished entertainer to the Broken Hill Fringe Festival now that Jonathan was on board. She was also buoyed by a wave of support and idea sharing from locals, particularly on Saturday night after the choir’s performance.
Australian Hearing, who helped sponsor Jonathan’s visit to the Silver City, has also committed to three more years. “The last two days having Jonathon perform and share his knowledge and passion for music has been a truly inspirational experience,” said Australian Hearing Broken Hill Manager Charyse May.
“We are committed to supporting the Broken Hill Fringe Festival for the next three years to bring Jonathon back to Broken Hill.” The Fringe Festival continues all this week. For more information visit facebook.com/Broken Hill Fringe.
Source Barrier Daily Truth
