Big stage show to aid disaster fund

The Observer has teamed up with the White Rock Theatre and the Hastings Stage Studio to put on a night of drama, singing and dancing on Friday, February 11.

We are hoping that a packed house will enable us to raise more than 10,000 for the cause, with the venue and performers participating for free to make sure the money goes where it's really needed.

All proceeds from the Tsunami Appeal Spectacular will go towards the work of the Disasters Emergency Committee in the region.

Hastings Stage Studio co-director John Pohlhammer, who is putting the show together with his wife Vanessa and former director Anne Slacke, said: "It's going to be a great show.

"We'll have musical numbers from Lord of the Dance and Chicago, as well as a wide variety of singing and dancing, from pop to classical.

"We share the sympathy felt all around the world for those suffering in Asia, and we're happy to do whatever we can to help."

Paul Ryan, general manager of The White Rock Theatre said: "The disaster relief efforts in Asia are something that myself and my staff have no hesitation in supporting 100 per cent.

"We have all been shocked by the images seen in the media and hope that the public show their support by coming to this charity event.

"Last year the theatre hosted 457 charity and community events without charge, and are looking forward to working with The Observer in making this event a huge success."

Michael Beard, group editor of the Observer, said: "Every time we ask our readers to help such a cause they respond in a magnificent way. We really hope that will be the case on February 11.

"It would be wonderful to pack the theatre out. If we do it will be the biggest event of its kind in the area.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for people to show how much they care."

The two-hour Tsunami Appeal Spectacular starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced from 12.50 (10 concessions) and are available from the Theatre Box Office on 0870 1451133.