A SUMMER comedy event is set to raise funds for a South Tyneside charity.
The Summer Laffalang will support South Shields-based Cancer Connections.
The organisation, in Harton Lane, provides support, therapies and counselling to borough cancer patients and their families.
The organisation, in Harton Lane, provides support, therapies and counselling to borough cancer patients and their families.
The comedy show, penned by South Shields writer Ed Waugh, is on at the Westovian Theatre in the town’s Pier Parade, on Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26.
Directed by Gareth Hunter, it will feature comedy sketches performed by top actors from across the region.
One of the sketches, Bobby Elliott, was recently performed by South Shields comic Chris Ramsey and others at the Sunday For Sammy show at Newcastle City Hall.
Other skits in the event, which will be hosted by North East comedian Micky Cochrane, will poke fun at subjects including the Great North Run and the Blaydon Races.
Gareth, from South Shields, said: “Following the huge success of the Xmas Laffalang at The Stand in Newcastle last December, which raised £1,400 for St Oswald’s Hospice, we wanted to put on the Summer Laffalang in our own borough for a local charity, and we are delighted to be associated with Cancer Connections.”
The cast will be headed by South Tyneside panto legend Bob Stott, who will perform as Widow Twanky.
Bob famously appeared in the Customs House panto as Dame Dotty for 37 years.
He said: “I can’t wait to play the old girl again. She’s a hoot. I played her in the Xmas Laffalang last December and that was amazing. The response was fantastic.”
Bob will be joined on stage by local actors Paul Dunn, Craig Richardson, and Viktoria Kay.
The charity’s co-founder and services manager, Deborah Roberts, said: “Dealing with cancer is stressful and upsetting. People need laughter and this will be an ideal tonic.
“The Laffalang will be a fantastic show. We would encourage people to come along to help the work of Cancer Connections and have a great laugh at the same time.”
The event also has the support of South Shields fish and chip shop Colman’s.
The Ocean Road chippy has come on board as a sponsor.
Owner Richard Ord said: “The Laffalang will be a great laugh. It is for a great cause and we are delighted to be sponsoring the shows.”
Tickets for the shows, which are at 7.30pm both nights, cost £10.
They can be bought from the Westovian Theatre by calling 456 0980, the Tourist Information Centre in Haven Point, in Pier Pavilion, either in person or by calling 424 7788, or from Cancer Connections by calling 456 5081 or 07751 246176.
