A comedy and music spectacular starring Griff Rhys Jones, comedian Tim Vine and TV legend Anneka Rice has been hailed a “colossal, resounding success” after raising £151,500 for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
Happy Christmas Ipswich 6 – the charity’s annual entertainment extravaganza – took place at the newly-refurbished Regent Theatre last Thursday night.
Hosted by EACH Patron Griff, others to entertain the bumper crowd were impressionist Jan Ravens, comedians Dee Allum, Sophie McCartney and Amy Matthews, West End star Dianne Pilkington and singing powerhouse and Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist John Pierce.
Suffolk talent also took centre stage with a dazzling performance from the Royal Hospital School Drummers, Bury St Edmunds-based jazz pianist Oscar Lyons and Ipswich School of Dancing, in addition to an unforgettable performance from a choir comprising children and families from The Treehouse – EACH’s hospice in Ipswich.
“What a truly incredible, unforgettable and magical night,” said EACH Chief Executive Kevin Clements.
“We couldn’t have been more delighted about the amount raised, which will make such a monumental difference to our vital work.
“It was a colossal, resounding success and our thanks, as ever, go to Griff.
“Once again, he took time out from his busy schedule, raiding his contacts book and pulling out all the stops to make this sixth edition of the show a reality.
“He’s an absolute force of nature, and his hard work, commitment and loyalty is something to behold.”
With the latest record-breaking total added, Happy Christmas Ipswich has now raised in the region of £700,000 since the first show in 2019.
Last week’s edition was supported by a number of local businesses, including headline sponsor Richard Johnston Ltd.
It was the first performance since a major redevelopment project at the Regent, which had been closed since May. The work included a new single-storey extension, improved accessibility and refurbished facilities.
“It will live long in the memory, and sincere thanks go to everyone who loyally supported us by buying tickets – the majority of which were snapped up before most of the acts were confirmed,” added Kevin.
“We couldn’t be more grateful to our amazing audience members – many of whom keep returning every year.
“Huge thanks also go to the generous local businesses that supported us, not to mention everyone at the Regent.
“What a difference their redevelopment work has made to this amazing, historic theatre. We were honored to be the first show to take the stage.”
Pictures: Leo Martin (@parallaxwolf)/EACH
