Talented performers help raise thousands for Chloe and Liam Together Forever Trust

Dancers from a number of schools from across the region came together to put on the variety show at Harton Technology College.

The event was pulled together by Caren Rowe, Chloe’s aunt, in tribute to the couple and to her niece’s passion for performance.

Chloe Rutherford, 17 and Liam Curry, 19, were among the 22 people killed in last May’s Manchester Arena bomb attack.

Since then, their families have created a trust in their names to support aspiring young performers and sportspeople to help them follow their dreams.

The matinee and evening shows saw the return to South Shields of four West End stars, sisters Lucy and Emma Adcock, Jennifer Ann Davison and Michelle Andrews.

The quartet - who all trained at dance schools in South Shields - have featured in a staggering 12 West End productions between them including Fame, Chicago, Starlight Express, Mary Poppins and Top Hat.

They were joined by Chloe’s young cousin Eve Rowe who performed a number of songs she has written herself. While, Eve’s older sister Beth danced in the show.

There were also performances from dancers who train at Lumsdale Theatre Arts, VA Performing Arts, Lauren Anderson Academy of Dance, Amy Richardson Studios and Elwick. Singer James Bassett and his trademark ukulele also made an appearance - helping raise a total of £8,111.85 for the trust.

Caren, who runs Lumsdale Theatre Arts, said: “This is the first show which has seen dancers from a number of different dance schools performing on one stage, that isn’t a competitive event.

“It was hard work putting on the show but I loved every minute of it. To have the girls come back from the West End to perform and give up their time was brilliant.

“I thought we might have been able to raise at least £4,000 but the tickets continued to be sold and the money kept going up. We also held raffles and people were so generous - it was really successful.”

Caren wished to thank Harton Technology who donated the use of the hall and stage for the show.

A CD performed by Lumsdale Theatre Arts summer school students and featuring recordings by Scarlett Ford, who received a bursary from the trust and Amy Ridley who has performed alongside Chloe in the past continues to be on sale, priced £8. They are available by emailing [email protected] or texting 07966 573 145.