THE finishing touches are being put to a one-off musical performance by a North-East operatics society that will raise funds for local charities.

Darlington OS will revive their Strictly Musicals for one night only on January 18 at the Darlington Civic Theatre in support of the town’s mayor, Charles Johnson, and The Mayor’s Fund.

The show, featuring a cast of 47 dancers and singers, includes a series of Broadway and West End hits and attracted sell-out crowds during its initial run in October.

Julian Cound, from Darlington OS, said: "We were first contacted over 18 months ago to discuss the possibility of creating a special one-off musical theatre concert in support of Councillor Johnson's mayoral fundraising year - we all felt this was a fantastic opportunity to showcase local talent.

"At that time we were in the early stages of preparing Strictly Musicals, so it seemed logical to reprise this production.

"By the feedback we received from audiences who came to see Strictly Musicals back in October audiences are assured of a fantastic night at the theatre.

“People who came to see Strictly Musicals at the end of last year could not believe they were watching an 'amateur' production, we had so many great comments about how professional the entire show was - many people came back to watch it three or four times.

"It will be a great honour to do it all over again - for one special night.”

Councillor Johnson said: "I was extremely pleased that Darlington OS was prepared to take up this Mayoral challenge - to create a special gala performance at the Civic Theatre and support The Mayor's Fund.

"I would like to thank Darlington OS for their hard work and preparation for this event over the last year."

  • Strictly Musicals - The Mayor's Gala will take place on Saturday, January 18 at 7.30pm at the Darlington Civic Theatre. Tickets are £15 and £17 available from the theatre box office on 01325-486555.