A talent-packed rock choir event in Swindon has announced several star performers for its billing of belters at the Wyvern Theatre on July 22. Kerry Ellis of West End fame, decorated local artist Laurence Jones, and professional local guitarist Darren Hunt are preparing to set the stage alight alongside members of Rock Choir North Wilts for its Sing for Swindon night in aid of Brighter Futures.

The Adver reported on Kate Benson’s announcement of the show back in January, but since then the choir leader has made some tantalising additions to the concert setlist.

She told the Adver: “We’ve got Kerry Ellis, who’s incredible. She’s toured with Brian May and she’s going to sing the solo of ‘Somebody to Love.’ She is the Elaine Page of her time.”

Kate’s booking of Laurence Jones was also cause for major excitement among the choir. Jones is the current recipient of the Young Blues Artist of the Year and Guitarist of the Year titles from the European Music Awards. “We wanted to get him before he became huge,” the choir leader said.

Darren Hunt will accompany the choir on some of the rockier numbers, and perform a special rendition of ‘Purple Rain’ by Prince.

“The audience will have the time of their lives and get to be a part of local history. Their memory of the performance will live on,” Kate added.

Huge progress has been made on the show since the announcement in January and singers are now putting in rehearsal time for their 20-song setlist.

In our previous story, we reported how Kate’s mother lost her life to leaukaemia and breast cancer.

But it’s not just Kate who has a personal connection to the Brighter Futures Radiotherapy Appeal. Ceri Tranter, a member of the choir since its inception, was left reeling when she discovered her mother had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

The choir has helped her to deal with many hardships. “Singing for me has saved me from the slippery slope of depression. My nearest and dearest are friends I made in the choir.”

Ceri had a health scare when her GP found a lump in her throat. She felt lucky to have it removed while it was still in its early stages. Although she was forced to relearn the power of speech, she is now ready to wow crowds with “a couple of real heartwarmers.”

She said: “We’re all really excited, and the issue is quite close to my heart.

“The radiotherapy unit needs to be made local.”

Tickets for the Rock Choir’s ‘Sing for Swindon’ concert go on sale on Friday April 6. You will be able to book tickets on swindontheatres.co.uk/online , or by calling the box office on 01793 524481.