It may not have had the best press in the past but Leigh Park in Havant is about to erupt into an all-singing all-dancing cabaret community. Little did anyone suspect that hidden within those quiet suburban streets was a sparkling array of talent just waiting for the chance to perform. Dozens of local people entered the variety show auditions leaving the selection committee - all local residents - the tricky task of shortlisting just 12 acts to perform on the night. Leigh Park's very own Sharon Osborne - the formidable Gwynyth Byfield - was on the selection committee and is proud of the way her local community has risen to the challenge. "I'm absolutely astounded", she said. "The talent that we've got here has been hidden and it's about time it was brought out into the light." For Gwynyth it's her own in-built "Tingle Factor" that tells her whether an act has what it takes - or as she also put it: "Somebody that makes me go whoopee!" Birds of a Feather actress Linda Robson is compèring the night and former Big Breakfast host Paul Tomkinson is providing the comedy. The evening of local talent kicks off with dance trio DDT - A.K.A. Darren, Debra and Tara who'll be mixing jazz, show and street style dancing. Don't expect too much respite when Brittle take the Stage. Danny, Michel, Kris and Charlie - all under 16 - will be thrashing out their own punk metal sound until somebody asks them to stop. And in contrast - it's variety after all - there's 9 year old "Terry the Piper" who'll be entertaining all with his chirpy jigs and hornpipes.
The Media On The Park project in Leigh Park is inspiring pupils and building trust between the BBC and the local community. It started with a simple request for a few media tips. More >>
Let's Do The Show Right Here Leigh Park Variety Show Park Community School Saturday 19th March 2pm* / 7.30pm Tickets via Park School (023 9248 9800) Leigh Park Community Centre (023 9248 4071) *Linda Robson and Paul Tomkinson will not be performing at the afternoon matinee. |
If there's an event in Leigh Park that you'd like the community media unit to film, email the group here.
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