Stagestruck Joanne saw her theatre dreams turn to reality

Stagestruck Joanne Bainbridge will have her dreams come true at the weekend when she treads the boards at Sunderland Empire.

The nine-year-old, of Northlea, Seaham, makes her theatrical debut with the A1 Wilson variety show at the Empire on Sunday night.

And yesterday she and A1 had an on-stage rehearsal with the star of the show, The Little Waster himself, Bobby Thompson.

Joanne’s dream debut was set up by Empire press officer Dave Brown.

She wrote to him as Joanne wanted to ask if she could have a tour round the theatre.

Dave took her backstage and introduced her to the variety show’s cast.

And it was then that A1 asked her if she would like to appear before an audience on Sunday night.

A1 stages his show each year to raise money for the Little Sisters of the Poor.

We would love to hear your own nostalgic stories of the stage.

Have you appeared in past productions at any of the great theatres in the area? Or is there a show from times gone by that you would like us to reminisce about.

Perhaps you would get back in touch with former cast colleagues and need a helping hand from Wearside Echoes.

Whatever the reason for contacting us, feel free to get in touch. Email chris. cordner@jpress.co.uk