The Columbus world

Press, 17 November 1976, Page 23

The Columbus world

By

ROBIN TURKEL

Ray Columbus has the best of both worlds — as a performer he pretty much writes his own ticket. and as a talent coordinator he a large say in the end product. His latest show is “Ray Columbus presents: New laces of 1976." which begins recording in Christchurch next week for TV--2 airing on four succeeding Sunday nights beginning on November 28. “This is the top of the pyramid in the constant

talent quest we run at the network,” Columbus said “It includes the best from ‘Opportunity Knocks’ and whoever else we’ve found during the year. “We are putting people into situations where they can really stretch temselves. Unfortunately, ’Booma' won’t be included because it came along a little late this year. But it will be part of next year's ‘New Faces'.” There will be 20 “New Faces” altogether on the four shows, plus a “spe-

cial personality” oh each — Marcus Craig, Annie Whittle, David McPhail and Hudson and Halls. “Talent is better this year,” said Columbus. Michael Hockley is producing and directing, with staging by Lynette Perry and musical arrangements by Wayne Senior. Singing will be live over taped backing. Columbus, one of the few entertainers threatened with over-exposure in the narrow N.Z.B.C. days — he performed in as many as 50 and 60 shows a year in the late 1960 s and early 70s — will make one of his now relatively rare starring appearances on the TV-2 “6.30 Special” on December 8.