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Sparkle and Glamour is a hit

The Bluebird Bells with audience member John Atkins (photo courtesy of Shropshire Star)

Published on 11 June 2019 09:27 AM

Once again, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin’s annual Afternoon of Entertainment proved a big hit with the hundreds of people who attended the event at Oakengates Theatre, Telford last month.

The theme this year was Sparkle and Glamour and with singing, music, dance, comedy and magic on offer, there was something for everyone on the programme. 25-year-old Jack Dent, international stage magician, opened the show with an amazing ‘real magic’ routine. Vintage vocal harmony trio The Bluebird Belles followed with two fantastic song sets, full of the charm of a bygone age.

Returning by popular demand, Bob Gessey entertained with only a guitar in support of his fine voice and comedic ditties. Completing the acts, solo artist Paul Lumsden treated the audience to a cabaret/musical theatre repertoire of songs such as I’ve Got You Under My Skin, For Once In My Life, and Oh What A Circus.

Bella Sohi, Care Navigator at Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin and organiser of the extravaganza, said: ‘It was fantastic to see the audience laughing and singing throughout the afternoon; the smile on people’s faces as they left the theatre makes the months of planning this event totally worthwhile.’

Bella’s team of helpers on the day included volunteers from local business DENSO Manufacturing UK Ltd, ReAssure and the Rotary Club. ‘We couldn’t contemplate putting on an event like this without the support of a lot of people, huge thanks in particular to our volunteers, who were invaluable throughout the event.’

Heather Osborne, Chief Executive of Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin, said: ‘The success of this annual event is entirely due to the commitment of our staff and volunteers, who are determined to put together an enjoyable afternoon of entertainment for older people to come along and enjoy.’

If you’d like to help make a difference to the lives of local older people, Age UK Shropshire Telford & Wrekin has a wide variety of volunteering opportunities available. Contact our volunteer recruitment team on 01743 233 123 or volunteering@ageukstw.org.uk to find out more.