AS the atmospheric first notes of a lone bagpipe resound around a packed Blackpool Grand Theatre an all-star gala evening will begin, thanks to the efforts of a local producer.

The all-singing all-dancing show called Being Alive, is the brainchild of Richard Caswell who wanted to bring an extravagant wealth of talent to Blackpool and raise money for AIDS charities on the Fylde at the same time.

It will be the first time such a show has ever been staged in Blackpool and Richard hopes that it will becomes an annual event in Blackpool's calendar, getting bigger and bigger every year.

The show, which is being hosted by Ned Sherrin, features an ever-increasing list of big-name talent, all of whom have made sacrifices to give their time for the cause.

As Basil Newby's Funny Girls bring their own inimitable brand of talent, other top stars, such as skater Robin Cousins, John Inman from Are You Being Served, Dr Evadne Hinge from comedy duo Hinge and Brackett and Blackpool's own ventriloquist Paul Zerdin, will leave the audience begging for more and more.

Replies from stars who would like to perform are still rolling in, even now.

Richard said: "I am tremendously encouraged by the response from so many big name artists who have come on board.

"I have lost some very good friends to AIDS so it is wonderful to be putting on such a show of talent and at the same time be helping AIDS charities on the Fylde, like Body Positive.

"I'm also very excited about putting this show on at The Grand. It is simply one of the most beautiful theatres in the whole country and most artists recognise that it is a wonderful place in which to perform."

Tickets for Being Alive range from £9 -£18.50 and special Champagne Gala seats are £25.

They are available from The Grand's box office on 290190. Black tie dress is optional.

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