Tumut Shire Council general manager Bob Stewart last week confirmed the festival's future was in doubt due to a lack of dedicated committee members.

The 10-day festival, involving a street parade, gala dinner and ball, as well as numerous entertainment activities, was too much for the eight members to run alone.

On Wednesday, Mr Stewart confirmed a successful meeting had been held and the decision to scrap the gala day in the park, street parade, gala ball and the MotoFest meant the festival could focus more on performing arts.

"The committee felt that it was important to rationalise the workload in order to encourage more people to get involved," Mr Stewart said. "This year, the committee has chosen to work together to deliver two quality events that will hopefully stir people's enthusiasm and energise the community."

Mr Stewart was disappointed that only four general community members attended the meeting, reiterating that a robust committee was essential to running a successful festival.

An expanded Rock the Turf music festival will kick off the revamped festival, which will now begin on Saturday, April 11.

The government-funded locally written production Waiting for the Rising Sun will also feature.

The Anzac-inspired piece will tell the story of Australia's World War I involvement and be staged on April 23 and 24, as well as May 1.

Mr Stewart said the popular Rock the Turf event highlighted the festival's future direction.

The brainchild of local musician Clayton Denson, the festival will be held at the picturesque Tumut Racecourse.

Mr Stewart said a number of events hosted by the arts society and other committees would be incorporated into the festival.

A comprehensive program will be released in the coming days.

"We hope people will see the success of the festival and step up," Mr Stewart said.