Bringing sunshine to stage
by Gordon Barr, Evening Chronicle
A HOST of entertainers will be taking to the stage next month for a worthy cause, as Entertainment Editor Gordon Barr explains.
NORTH East stars are gearing up for this year's Stars on Sunday show.
Newcastle’s Journal Tyne Theatre is once again playing host to the annual Sunshine Fund event, which this year promises to be one of the best ever.
Organiser Leah Bell, one of the region’s best known performers and choreographers, is organising this year’s show, which takes place on September 21, and says she is really looking forward to it.
She said: “It’s going really well. Everyone is putting a tremendous effort into it all. It’s getting bigger and bigger every year and people really enjoy it.
“It’s an old-fashioned variety show and I urge you all to buy a ticket.”
Leah and comedian Bobby Pattinson have gathered their showbusiness pals to present a night of comedy and music.
Those appearing include Johnny De Little, Peter Donegan and Jason King. Glitz and glamour will be provided by The Dream Girls and the Sonny Dogan Dance Machine.
The bill will also include the Reavley Theatre School and there will be a Take That tribute by Envy.
Sunshine Fund manager Jo Harris said: “This is always a fantastic event that raises much-needed funds for us and this year looks like it will be no exception.
“Leah and Bobby do a fantastic job organising everything and we are very grateful for all of the hard work they put in to make this night as memorable as possible.
“I am really looking forward to it.”
The Sunshine Fund provides equipment which makes a significant improvement to the lives of children who are either living with a disability or are seriously ill.
It is equipment that is usually not available from normal sources, such as the NHS, because of funding restrictions.
Anyone wishing to make an application to the Sunshine Fund for a grant, or wishing to raise money on the charity’s behalf or who would like more information, should contact Sunshine Fund manager Jo Harris on (0191) 201 6289.
Tickets for the show on September 21 are only £12 and can be purchased from the Journal Tyne Theatre Box Office on 0844 493 9999.
