By PETER DOUGLAS
IT’S time to break out your Hawaiian shirt, dust off your grass skirt and join in the world of all things ukulele.
The Dandenong Ranges Ukulele Day on Saturday 16 April is sure to get hearts singing, with the venue for this year the Belgrave-Upwey RSL.
The festival line-up features a diverse range of world-class ukulele performers, ukulele groups and workshops.
Highlights include Mic Conway’s music, magic and comedy show; Alex Burns’ workshop and performance; and Hills local Matthew Fagan opening the evening show.
Fagan, also the festival programmer, has ensured a great program for ukulele-lovers everywhere.
“It’s an opportune time to have the event, coinciding with the inimitable Mic Conway’s tour to Victoria, with the evening concert featuring Mic Conway,” he said.
“Mic Conway is very popular as a headline performer with ukulele festivals nationally.”
Also performing will be the Emerald Primary School Ukulele Band and KALULU (Kooky and Luscious Ukulele Lovers United), one of the Hills-based ukulele clubs.
The school band came into being in 2012 after a term of learning the instruments in class.
Some students wanted a forum to use their new skills.
KALULU meet every second and fourth Sunday of the month at the Kallista Community House.
Alex Burns is one of Australia’s most respected acoustic musicians, having performed at every major festival in Australia, as well as overseas including the acclaimed Edinburgh Festival.
Meanwhile, Hans Music, the main sponsor for DRUKE last year, will be having a stall, just in case you need to buy accessories or even a new ukulele.
David Aumann will also have some of his great ukuleles on display.
The event will be held on Saturday 16 April, from 1.30pm until 11pm.
Online bookings at www.trybooking.com/KOWT or phone 0438 881 985.
Dinner/lunch bookings on 9754 3665.
