Grant helps 11th-hour reprieve for kids' show

Beth Taylor in Steppin' Out.

An Auckland Children's Musical Theatre show that was cancelled last month because of a lack of money will go ahead thanks to a large grant and a huge fundraising effort by parents.

The theatre had planned to celebrate its 10th anniversary with several performances of a singing and dancing show called Steppin' Out at SkyCity theatre.

But lack of money and slow ticket sales forced the shows to be cancelled, much to the disappointment of the cast of about 100 children and adults.

Executive producer Lynne Drexler said yesterday that the theatre had managed to raise about $60,000.

"Most of the money came from a Lions Foundation grant, and the rest was fundraised by parents and through corporate ticket sales."

She said the money would cover production costs and the theatre hoped to break even.

"It's just wonderful. We are very excited and everybody is so thrilled the show will go ahead."

She said the cast had been disappointed when the show was cancelled, but were determined to find a way for it to continue.

"The cast has started rehearsing and they are really happy."

Steppin' Out opens tomorrow at SkyCity theatre and runs until Sunday. Tickets are still available from Ticketek and cost between $15 and $30.