Talented young magicians, dancers, singers and comedians who have been supported by The Archie Foundation are being invited to take the stage next year to raise funds for the charity as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.
The charity’s much-anticipated Variety Show is returning for a second consecutive year and a brand new line-up of acts is now being put together, applications now open for performers via The Archie Foundation’s website.
Children who have received care from The Archie Foundation or NHS Grampian will have a unique opportunity to perform at Aberdeen’s iconic Tivoli Theatre on Saturday, April 19, 2025.
Sponsored by TEXO and supported by the Tivoli, the Variety Show will feature a range of exciting acts, backed by local band and music sponsor Glitz, which is providing the music for rehearsals and on the night.
No previous experience is necessary as a role will be found for every child who would like to get involved.
11-year-old Mollie Forbes and her nine-year-old brother Josh participated in last year's show after being supported by The Archie Foundation following a serious car accident near Stonehaven in 2019.
They are excited to prepare their jokes and singing voices for the upcoming event at The Tivoli and their mum Kat Forbes encouraged other children who have been supported by The Archie Foundation and NHS Grampian to take part in the 2025 show.
“My father-in-law saw the story about the Variety Show online and thought it would be great for the children. Josh is very confident and had an interest in magic so the team helped him to develop a magic act, while Mollie is shy but likes to sing and dance so she was teamed with other girls so she wasn’t on her own.
“Josh was in a body brace for three months after suffering injury to his spinal ligaments, a fractured hip and broken collar bone, while Mollie had some problems with confidence, body image and self esteem after the car accident, which left her with two broken arms and scars. Taking part in the Variety Show has given her an amazing boost and helped her to come out of her shell,” said Kat, who lives in Gourdon.
“They had a great time both on stage and backstage, getting hair and make-up done, getting their microphones on and hearing the applause – it was really special. Josh made friends who he is still in touch with and we all loved meeting the other children and families who have been supported and hearing their stories and journeys.
“The Archie Foundation provided incredible support while they were in hospital, including providing a room for my husband and I to stay in at the Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital. Archie provided the kids with toys and activities to keep them engaged while in hospital. These were greatly appreciated and helped distract them from the pain and the medical procedures,” she added.
“Mollie and Josh were eager to do something to help Archie and this is a fantastic opportunity for them to be on stage and challenge themselves. It was an emotional experience for the whole family and we’d encourage other children to get involved too.”
Organiser Cassie McGunnigle, an Archie volunteer, said the 2025 Variety Show would celebrate the unique talents and abilities of the children.
She said: “The children will once again be the heart and soul of the show, which was an incredible success this year. Whether performing as a solo act or part of a collaborative effort, the show at the Tivoli Theatre in 2025 will be a celebration of their creativity and resilience.
“All abilities are welcome to apply. We understand that some children may want to take part but aren’t sure what their act will be yet, but they shouldn’t worry, as there will be plenty of support available to help them discover what they can do and feel confident about taking part.
“With the valued support of TEXO and the Tivoli Theatre, we want this year’s show to be an even bigger success and we’re excited to see everyone showing off their talents!”
Cassie hopes to secure industry professionals as mentors to provide advice, guidance and encouragement to the performers, boosting their confidence and ensuring they’re ready for their moment in the spotlight.
Westhill-based industrial services provider TEXO is a long-time supporter of The Archie Foundation and managing director Chris Smith said it was important to support the variety show for a second year.
“We’re thrilled to be continuing our sponsorship of The Archie Foundation’s Variety Show and can’t wait to see the show next spring. The inaugural show was an emotionally-charged evening and the standard of the performances was incredible,” he said.
“Archie does such amazing work in supporting local families at their time of need when a baby or child is in hospital, and we’re proud to play our part in helping to raise crucial funds for its work as well as giving these inspirational children a chance to shine in the spotlight.”
For more information about Archie and to sign up for to be in the show, visit https://archie.org/events/varietyshow/