Broadway concert in Deri to raise funds and honour friend

Nia and Richard, who are husband and wife, are part of the cast

A Broadway-inspired concert is coming to Deri to raise money for Velindre Cancer Centre and pay tribute to a close friend of the production.

Broadway Lights will take place at Deri Community Centre on June 25 to celebrate the life of Ceri Williams.

Ms Williams, who was a friend of producer and director Gareth Edward Evans, passed away earlier this year.

“The cause is in Ceri’s memory because she was linked to Velindre,” said Gareth, “that was my inspiration for doing the show.”

The concert features a section dedicated to Ceri and a special performance by Affinity Female Voice Choir, which Ceri picked.

Gareth, 46, continued: “Her energy will be there on the night.”

Gareth, who is originally from Aberbargoed but now lives in Deri, is a former BBC junior producer and has already produced one show in the area.

Cast members Rebecca and Wayne at rehearsals

This show will feature songs from Moulin Rogue, The Greatest Showman, Aspects of Love, Chess and Fame – with four main vocalists: Nia Poynter, Rebecca McKernan, Richard Poynter and Wayne Perret.

“The cast is definitely West End standard,” said Gareth, “they blend together as if they’ve worked together for years.”

Gareth is hoping that this is the start of many more shows in the area.

“This is a starting point,” he said, “my aim is to bring West End standards to remote villages.”

From what he’s seen so far, there is a desire for these kinds of shows.

“There’s nothing like it there,” added Gareth, speaking about Deri, “everyone is sort of excited about it.”

Deri Community Centre is set to be transformed into a glitzy, glamorous venue thanks to a team of volunteers and Deri RFC will also be on hand to run a fully licensed bar.

Gareth added: “I’m quietly confident that they’re going to be blown away from start to finish.”

Broadway Lights is on Sunday June 25 and starts at 7pm.

Tickets are £7.50. Tickets already purchased are still valid.

Gareth Edward Evans

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