By Dean Lawson

Horsham’s Richard Morris Memorial Concert is building on growing theatrical talent in the Wimmera after one of the largest performer line-ups in the event’s 15-year history.

Event spokeswoman Jan Morris said the number of performers and the talent on display at Horsham Town Hall on Saturday night was staggering.

“It was just wonderful. I would say it was the largest involvement of performers since the concerts started,” she said.

“There is so much talent out there, which is very healthy for the arts in Horsham.

“It also tells us that the concert is here to stay and everyone has already started thinking about next year.”

Mrs Morris said the night had several highlights apart from individual performances, including presentations of the event’s first life-membership – to Stacey Brennan – and the announcement of scholarship winners.

“Stacey Brennan has been doing the concert as a performer or director for 15 years,” she said.

“She is a ‘yes Jan’ girl and the recognition is highly appropriate. It was a very special part of the night.”

Theatrical performer Liam Robertson, 15, who has been wowing audiences in Horsham productions this year and performed again in various ensembles on Saturday night, won a $1000 Richard Morris Scholarship.

“The announcement was very popular,” Mrs Morris said.

“We look for a passion for theatre and what the performers hope to achieve and his application was wonderful.”

Mrs Morris said judges also announced a $250 encouragement award for 13-year-old fledgling musical composer Darcie Landrigan.

“It’s great to know that everyone who has had their name on a scholarship shield is still working in the arts somewhere around the world,” she said.

Mrs Morris said the concert managed to attract a crowd of more than 300 despite competition from many other community events.

“We had a great audience. We even had people there from overseas who were blown away with the high level of performance,” she said.