First for North East Proms

by What's On NE

TWO operatic stars with North East roots are to be brought together to share the famous stage of the annual North East Proms for the first time, this autumn.

Graeme Danby, originally from Consett, will be making his debut appearance – joining Proms regular Janice Cairns who hails from Ashington.

The combination of their bass and soprano performances will be a highlight in an evening with other special moments amongst the annual Proms treats at Newcastle City Hall. Also appearing will be Suzanne Manuell, Blake Fischer, violinist Bradley Creswick, and the English Philarmonic Orchestra, conducted by David Haslam.

This October’s event is the nineteenth for the North East Proms Against Cancer charity, which has raised more than a million pounds for cancer research at the RVI and patient care in our region.

Graeme had no hesitation in accepting the invitation to join the annual fundraiser. He said: “NEPAC of course plays a vital role in raising money and awareness of many cancer related illnesses.”

Soprano Janice said: “It’ll be wonderful to perform with Graeme once more. He’s a northern lad – he’s never forgotten where his roots are, just like me. The Proms are such a fun fun night. Every time, you think it can’t get any better – but it does!”

Janice Cairns was praised for her recent “stunning performance of great poise” as Duenna in Der Rosenkavalier at the Coliseum, which another critic described as “an immaculate cameo”.

Her appearance in the Proms will be squeezed between two important events for her own charity Opera Africa: a fund-raising concert and then a trip to support yearly eye operations. She has just returned from nearly five weeks in The Gambia in West Africa founding a clinic and helping women with health and farming.

Graeme Danby’s busy summer schedule of recordings and performances will be interrupted for one important diary date at St James’ Park – he’ll be on the pitch before the first game of the season, to lead the singing of Blaydon Races.

Rosalynde Walker, who with her late husband George founded NEPAC, said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing Graeme and Janice together in front of such an enthusiastic North East audience – it’s going to be a very special occasion.”

Full details of the North East Proms are on www.nepac.org.uk