The ODT's "Big Night In" 150th birthday celebration, at the Forsyth Barr Stadium on November 12, will feature some of the best singers, dancers and entertainers in the region.
The event is being supported by the Dunedin City Council as the opening community concert in the new stadium.
"The concert is about communities and families," artistic producer Doug Kamo said yesterday.
"It's a chance for our regional artists to perform alongside national artists, and bring a community concert event to Dunedin like we've never experienced before."
Auditions for performers are advertised in Allied Press newspapers from this week, and start around the region later this month, Mr Kamo said.
Alexandra singer-songwriter and bar worker Libby Hamilton (25) was rehearsing Over the Rainbow yesterday for her audition.
"I think it will be an awesome experience," she said.
"It's a wonderful opportunity to showcase the talent in Otago and the wider community in the new stadium. I'm really excited about it."
Invercargill musician Veronica McCarrison (34) said she was also looking forward to the concert.
"It looks like it's going to be lots of fun." Bayfield High School pupil Bronwyn Halley and Geraldine High School pupil Annalise Nelson (both 16) said they would also be auditioning.
"I love to sing, so I can't wait," Bronwyn said.
"I've done some competitions before, but never anything this big." One of the Big Night In feature acts will be the OD Glee ensemble, composed of 20 singers from Dunedin, the Central Otago-Lakes District, the North Otago-South Canterbury region and Southland region.
OD Glee auditions will be held in Oamaru on July 23, Invercargill on July 24 and 25, Queenstown on July 25 and 26, and Dunedin from July 29 to August 1.
Experienced vocalists and dancers were also required, Mr Kamo said, while a call would be made closer to the concert for bands, dance groups and specialist performers.
For more information, email auditions@thebignightin.co.nz
The closing date for audition applications is 5pm on July 18.
