Prices blamed for empty seats

By Shaun Inguanzo
TICKET prices have been blamed for a less-than-expected turnout to see a star-studded line-up perform at the Greater Dandenong Mayoral Gala Charity Ball last Tuesday.
City mayor Peter Brown said he was delighted with the evening but high prices deterred more people from attending the event.
The night’s performances included tenor Peter Brocklehurst and Dusty Springfield impersonator and Australian music icon Wendy Stapleton.
Cr Brown said the council sold 300 tickets to the 500-person capacity theatre at $65 each.
Cr Brown said he had no control over ticket pricing and would have liked to see tickets at half that price.
As a result, beneficiaries of the concert – Wellsprings for Women and Cornerstone – will not receive the expected $10,000 each.
Cr Brown said until figures were finalised he could only guess the amount each charity received would be ‘substantially less’.
The night’s acts were organised by former City of Dandenong councillor Ma-ree Arthur.
Cr Brown said the night was otherwise a success with acts performing at the top of their game and those in attendance enjoying a superb evening of entertainment.
Rounding off the evening were veteran Australian musicians Darryl Cotton, Jim Keays, and Russell Morris who performed some of Australia’s best known rock songs.
“I am appreciative of the support the community gave,” Cr Brown said.
“The Drum is a great venue and the sound is marvellous.
“Everyone enjoyed themselves, I just would like to have seen every seat in the place filled.”