A Palmerston North police officer will take to the stage this weekend to compete against nine talented singers for a Stars In Your Eyes accolade.
When Feilding Country Music Club decided to organise a charity version of the popular TV show Detective Dave Wishnowsky was a natural choice for the line-up.
Dave grew up in Feilding and is well known as one of two lead singers for the 80s cover band Revival Corporation who were chosen to support Lionel Ritchie in this year's Mission Concert. Sadly the event was rained off but they have a second chance at the Mission having been asked to perform in February's event alongside Motown greats such as The Four Tops and The Temptations.
On Sunday, August 30 at Feilding Rangitikei Club 10 acts sponsored by 10 local businesses will change persona for the afternoon to become one of their favourite performers.
Rumour has it Madonna and Robbie Williams are among the 10 but Dave is keeping tight-lipped on his alter-ego.
Each singer has a nominated charity with prizes from the event going to the winner's charity. Fittingly for Dave that is emergency service St John.
Dave said: "I was surprised but really happy to be asked to take part, especially with the event raising money for good causes."
Used to fronting a band this will, however be Dave's first solo performance and he faces some stiff competition with at least one vocal coach among the competitors and another singer who is currently starring in Miss Saigon.
"With the prospect of sharing the same stage as Lionel Ritchie I was just excited rather than nervous, but this is very different. Put me in front of 25,000 strangers I'm fine; put me in front of a small group of people who know me and the nerves kick in. I'm also used to having my band backing me up. This time I will be stepping out solo and the chances are some of my band members will be in the audience watching."
Tickets for the event are going fast so you need to be quick if you want to see the show. They are priced $15 and available from the Feilding Information Centre or Palmerston North I-site. Doors/bar/restaurant open at noon and the show starts at 1pm.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.