About Christmas Spectacular
There is no doubt that Brother Christmas Spectacular, was an overwhelming success! The event attracted in excess of 20,000 people, while 18,000 made it into the event arena.
Objectives Achieved
- Target audience attendance 10,000 plus people
- Raise $76,000 to fund the event
- Community Christmas carol singing involving the audience
- High quality delivery and execution
- Family oriented
- Performances based on music and dance
- Showcase Hutt City talent
- Fun
Programme
The programme was well crafted and catered to the majority of tastes represented by the audience. Highlight performances include Ben Makisi, The Beatgirls and the Funky Monkeys. A good balance of entertainment and participation through community carol singing was achieved. The fireworks finale provided a suitable climax for the enjoyment of the audience. For the next event the programme
schedule will be pushed back by 30 minutes to ensure suitable light levels to maximise the effectiveness of the fireworks display.
Giveaways
Over 7,000 free full colour A3 programmes were distributed. Brother provided 250 bags that were given away to the crowd. Glowstick sales exceeding expectations, therefore provision for more will be made for future events.
Life Education Trust
The Life Education Trust benefited by $2006.20 from the bucket collection and a further $800 from the sale of light sticks.
“Thank you to all the people who made the evening such a success. Life Education Trust Hutt Valley are very grateful for the opportunity to benefit from this wonderful family event.” Margaret Radford, Life Education Trust
Harold, the Trust’s mascot was a favourite amongst the children and was well received on stage and during his walkabout in the crowd.
Workers
A team of 180 people volunteered their time to deliver Brother Christmas Spectacular. This team covered production, artists, security and organisers. Additional support was provided by Upper Hutt Community Rescue (First Aid), NZ Police, Walkwise, Rotary and Maori Wardens.
Police Feedback
The Police were generally happy with crowd behaviour with only two arrests all night. Most people respected the temporary liquor ban, with fewer than a dozen people caught trying to bring in liquor, although more liquor ban notices will be posted in future. While traffic flowed well along Harcourt Werry Drive, in future only one side of Taita Drive will have parking.
Budget
The event income was $92,626. Many businesses gave significant discounts and a number also gave free services in kind which helped make this event possible.