A Grand Night of Variety held in Lagoa Auditorium last Saturday raised a ‘grand’ total of €4,400 for the Algarve Oncology Association.
Organised by local resident and author Jenny Grainer, the event was a great success with people even queuing at the door for cancellation tickets.
Funds were raised from tickets, raffle, bar takings and donations from the generous public who filled the auditorium to capacity to see performances by various talented individuals and groups.
MC Ian Carfrae entertained with his Father Christmas striptease and Pink Panther number on the saxophone.
Children were, of course, a show-stealer, with young ones starting the show from Fit to Dance studio in Alvor, and the Albufeira Academy of Dance showcasing a ballet composition and contemporary dance full of energy.
Pedro Frias played a piece on the acoustic guitar prior to introducing his protégé Catarina Barão, who sang her first recording ‘I Just Wanna Be in Love’.
The audience was entertained by Jan on his accordion including an Hungarian piece and a rendition of the Portuguese fado ‘Cheira a Lisboa’.
Other talent on the night was Bermuda-born Pinky Steede, described as “a diminutive ball of energy who has travelled her big voice all over the world” and last Saturday delighted all in the Lagoa venue. Another big voice was that of soprano Carla Pontes, who sang as part of female trio Dell’Aqua Trio.
The choir from Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Silves, with people of various ages and nationalities, provided the audience with traditional songs, and the night ended with an upbeat performance by The New Orleans Jazz Band.
