Phill can for Kiwi Can
Witherlea School Teacher Phill Johnson will perform as American country musician and songwriter Zach Bryan in the Stars in Your Eyes charity fundraiser show in August. Photo: Paula Hulburt
When it came to choosing a charity to support, Stars in Your Eyes keen guitarist Phill Johnson did not hesitate.
The Witherlea School teacher is performing in the August stage spectacular as American country musician and songwriter Zach Bryan.
And even if he doesn’t win, he is delighted to be helping raise the profile of his chosen charity Kiwi Can.
“Easy decision. I've been a school teacher for 13 years and I know that it's tough out there for some kids and Whānau.
“Kiwi Can provides opportunity for kids to learn skills and values through a fun and active way.”
Run by the Graeme Dingle Foundation, the initiative helps set a foundation of values and life skills students take with them through school and into later life.
Aimed at pupils aged between 5 and 12 years old, Kiwi Can teaches integrity, respect and resilience.
Most schools in Marlborough are visited by Kiwi Can leaders each week.
“I also have a lot of respect for the Kiwi Can leaders who I know work tirelessly to put the wellbeing of kids first,” Phill says.
“To be honest I haven't thought about winning yet and am just looking forward to the event and doing my best for Kiwi Can.
“Promoting the charity is massive for me and winning will be the cherry on top.”
Having performed in cover bands since he was at Marlborough Boys’ College as a 16-year-old, and later at university, Phill says he has always loved performing.
Now a member of local band Acoustic Boomtown, his guitar is never far.
“I've always loved performing and have always been 'that guy' who will get a guitar out parties.
“I think naturally you dream to be a well-known musician and mimicking Zac Bryan in Stars in your eyes gives you a small taste of it.
“I play music because it's fun and makes people happy.
“Stars in your eyes will be amazing for everyone involved and it's for a great cause. Win, Win really.”
To find out more about the Graeme Dingle Foundation and Kiwi Can visit dinglefoundation.org.nz/kiwi-can/
Proudly presented by the the Creative Kids Trust and Fulton Foundation Marlborough, Stars in Your Eyes will be held at the ASB Theatre on August 24. Tickets go on sale soon.