Melissa’s the best bar ‘nun’
Dancer all set for stage role
NIKI TENNANT
Dance is a hard habit to break for a talented Croftfoot teenager who is taking part in a “nun run” to promote a forthcoming South Lanarkshire stage show.
As a member of Eros Musical Society, 17-yearold Melissa Hemmingsley is busy rehearsing for a stage production of Sister Act which will run at East Kilbride Village theatre next month.
Melissa is among the cast members who will get into character with the “nun run” from the theatre to the town’s shopping centre on August 17.
Eros president Maureen Driscoll explained: “It’s just a bit of fun to promote our show and let people know what’s happening, although some of our friends will also be sponsoring us to help raise funds for our club.
“I’m not sure that everyone on the run will be keeping up a fast pace, but we’ll all be very enthusiastic.
“I have no doubt it will be an eye-catching sight!”
Self-taught dancer Melissa joined Eros in 2017, when she starred as a dwarf in the musical society’s production of Snow White.
Last year she took to the stage again as a page boy in Cinderella.
Melissa left high school in June and is looking forward to starting a paediatric nursing degree course at Caledonian University.
And even though her studies will bring new pressures on her time, she is determined never to give up dancing.
“It’s just something I have done myself since I was very young and I really enjoy it,” explained Melissa, who is currently working at a nursery in Castlemilk.
“I have always loved musicals. In Sister Act, I am one of the nuns and back-up dancers. It is so much fun. The best thing ever! I just love to dance and I would never give it up.
“The show is fantastic, with an amazing cast.
“The ‘70s pop music will be familiar to the audience and will have wide appeal – from teenagers to older people.
“Anyone can enjoy it. It is so upbeat!”
Sister Act The Musical plays to packed audiences around the world with its fabulous gospel, boogie and rock songs and lively comedy.
As well as 7.30pm shows from September 17 to 21 (tickets priced £16.50), there’s also a matinee on Saturday September 21 at 2.30pm, at which tickets costs £15.
Tickets are available from Eros booking manager Eileen Monie on 0141 569 7572, email Eileenmonie53@ icloud.con or at www. slllcboxoffice.co.uk or the theatre box office on 01355 261000