On Saturday 22nd March local children’s cancer charity, the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust hosted their Greatest Show Charity Ball, welcoming 140 guests into a circus themed night of wonder and surprises.
Upon arrival at the impressive DRPG Studios, ticket holders were greeted by a glamorous fire performer and interactive circus acts before being ushered into the ‘big top’ event space. Guests followed a grass laid walkway into the mystical yet inviting ringside where they took to their seats in anticipation for the show to begin. With a dramatic dip into darkness, the melody of The Greatest Showman soundtrack marked the arrival of Ringmaster and Compere for the evening, Lee Partridge. Before entering into the first game of the night, the audience heard thought provoking welcome speeches from CEO and Founder, Jen Kelly and Chairperson, Vic Billings. Supporters then competed in a tactile game of Heads and Tails with a prize of £300 worth of photo shoot vouchers up for grabs.
After starters were served, guests were treated to a mesmerising aerialist performance to ‘Rewrite the Stars’ which set the tone for a heart-touching speech from a mother who has been supported by the children’s cancer charity. Emma Cleal introduced the audience to her charismatic son Frank whilst explaining why she now fundraises via his named fund Be More Frank so that other young oncology families across six counties can receive a non-means tested financial grant. A visual montage of Frank through the years highlighted the importance of continued support for families facing childhood cancer.
In between courses guests visited the glitter station which was kindly provided by Get Glitz whilst Big Top Mystery Boxes circulated the ringside. Ticket holders could purchase a Mystery Box to be in with a chance of winning high end prizes such as a wine tasting experience day at Three Choirs Vineyard and skincare hampers that had been donated by Cheltenham based brand MONUSKIN.
Around 8:30pm, the spectacular Voices Unlimited Choir in full whimsical attire, marched their way through a stunned audience as they opened their performance of four hit songs with ‘The Greatest Show’. The 80-piece choir surprised tables with their flash mob as they performed amongst the unsuspecting tables of guests. The uplifting atmosphere and popular songs empowered audience members to jump to their feet and sing in unity as the whole venue discovered a new realm of magic.
Once the room regained composure, the Ringmaster was joined on stage by Trustee Tracey Marlow-Jones to present the charity’s annual Corporate Challenge Awards. Five local businesses have spent the past six months competing to raise the most funds out of £50 cash and tonight was the night the totals were revealed and fundraising efforts celebrated with three special awards. Ballards LLP and Four Squared Recruitment walked away with the ‘Most Funds Raised’ award after raising a fantastic £5,000. Lucart Hygiene were proud to receive the ‘Team Spirit’ award and Matcon were recognised for their innovative fundraising ideas.
Local Father and Charity Campaigner James Mackay then took to the spotlight as he shared a story of struggle and hope as he explained his own family’s journey and relationship with the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust. His emotive words reminded guests of the importance of giving back when in a position to do so as childhood cancer is not selective. James then turned to his salesman talents and hosted the live auction which featured five top LOTS including:
- A private tour of the Heathrow ATC Tower (Donated by Crowle Table Tennis Club)
- An afternoon tea for two at The Ritz, London
- A one night stay in an enchanting Treehouse on the Elmore Court Estate
- The Open Championship Ultimate Collectors’ Set
- And an exclusive England shirt signed by Jude Bellingham which was (Donated by Inkberrow Football Club)
The Greatest Show finale was a series of pre-recorded thank you messages from some of the children the Trust supports across Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Herefordshire. Guests were guided through to the final studio spaces to enjoy live Motown and soul music from the talented Clique Band and for photo booth fun provided by Bliss Events and The Selfie Shack.
The Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust are thrilled to announce that the event has raised a total of £29,014.63
Planning this event over the last six months has been an incredible journey of learning and growth. I am immensely proud and grateful to everyone who made this event so special. Thank you to our supporters, to our suppliers, to those who donated prizes, to our volunteers, to our families and lastly to my colleagues; without all of you, this event simply wouldn’t of happened! Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to this vital cause.
Event organiser and Charity Fundraiser Abbie Bissell-Blazier
It was a wonderful event, and a truly worthy cause. We (Redditch Borough Councillors Monica Stringfellow, Sachin Mathur and myself) appreciated the words from parents supported by the charity – Emma Cleal and James Mackay highlighting the support they received from the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust. We also thoroughly enjoyed the entertainment with the circus performers and the choir.
Redditch Borough Councillor and Mayor of Redditch Juma Begum
Watch the moment that the Voices Unlimited Choir surprised guests below:
