Bay divas' French flair

A sell-out crowd welcomed the fourth season of Tarnished Frocks and Divas to Tauranga last night with the French-themed show setting the scene for a stunning line up of local divas making their stage debut.

The show, held every two years in Tauranga, was inspired by the loss of loved ones to breast cancer and features singing, dancing and modelling by local women, all aged over 40. This year's show was hosted by Mills Reef Winery and set in a part of the venue never used to stage a production before.

Tarnished Frocks and Divas trustee Tracey Rudduck-Gudsell said tickets to the five shows sold out weeks ago.

"It's not the norm in Tauranga for a show to sell out so far in advance but very much the norm for this particular production."

Once again hosted by well-known Kiwi entertainer Jackie Clarke (alias La Belle Jacqueline) the show also featured accordion player Tracey Collins who started playing at age 7 and aims to build its popularity among youth.

The show features 102 outfits including sections inspired by French designers including Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Yves St Laurent and Pierre Cardin.

Tauranga women Judith Bell, Linda Ellis, Robyne Dowdall and wig maker Vanessa Reid are responsible for transforming the tarnished frocks into their former glory.

Fellow trustee Denny Spee said every year the show had a different flavour and a different edge.

"This year is exceptional and the bar has been raised even higher in every way."