Impressionist Jon Culshaw and comedians Rory McGrath, Milton Jones, Andy Hamilton and Richard Herring are among those lined up for this year’s Happy Christmas Ipswich showstopper. More big names and surprise guests are set to join in the fun and take to the stage for the comedy and music spectacular, which is in aid of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) and taking place at the town’s Regent theatre on Monday, 5th December. Celebrity champion Griff Rhys Jones has once again raided his contacts book and others on the bill include legendary comedy writer John Lloyd – one of television’s most successful comedy creators of the last four decades and fresh from a hit stage show – comedians Geoff Norcott and Deborah Frances-White and actress and singer Janie Dee. Only Fools and Horses actor Phil Pope will also be coming along with his band, putting smiles on faces with his brand of witty music. Last year’s award-winning show raised a staggering £92,000 for EACH, which supports families and cares for children and young people with life-threatening conditions across Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex. Happy Christmas Ipswich 3 promises to be another fun-packed night of laughs, music and entertainment and tickets, now on general sale now, are available here. EACH Events Manager Becky Redbond said: “As ever, we’re very much looking forward to our big night in Ipswich. “Hopefully it follows in the footsteps and is equally successful as the shows in 2019 and 2021. “Both were great fun, hugely popular and, crucially, raised tens of thousands of pounds for EACH. Hopefully this year will be no different. “Once again, Griff has worked tirelessly and it promises to be a fun-filled evening. Tickets are selling fast so my advice would be to get in quick.” This year’s show, which is set to open with a dance number from Ipswich’s Emma Dodd School of Performing Arts, will be proudly sponsored by The New Homes Group. The Colchester-based business is a long-term supporter of EACH, having donated more than £275,000 since 2016. Last year’s edition scooped a coveted prize in the Event/Campaign of the Year category at the Chartered Institute of Fundraising East Anglia Awards, in June. In addition to The Treehouse, in Ipswich, EACH has two other hospices – The Nook, just outside Norwich, and at Milton, near Cambridge. Photo credits – JHReportage (www.jhreportage.co.uk)
