A CONCERT organised by a local performer and businessman at the McMillan Theatre in Bridgwater has raised over £3,000 for a mental health charity.

Ashley Ross Quinn and a group of performers, ranging from West End actors to local up-and-comers, held Encore on Saturday, September 3.

It was a sequel to Stages, which raised £2,600 for the Alzheimer's Society and the NSPCC last year.

Last year's show took place while there were some Covid restrictions in place, limiting ticket sales and making them unable to perform group numbers on stage.

Ashley, who trained at The Italia Conte Academy of Theatre Arts, said: “It was amazing to have sold a lot more tickets than we did last time.

“In the year before, there were still some restrictions for Covid, so it was great to have more people there this time.”

The night of sparkling entertainment featured classic ballads and toe-tapping favourites.

It ended with a group rendition of ‘You Will Be Found’ from Dear Evan Hansen, a song that helped people find connections and hope throughout the pandemic.

Bridgwater Mercury: “We’re really grateful for everyone who had supported us and donated.” Picture: Neil Priddle“We’re really grateful for everyone who had supported us and donated.” Picture: Neil Priddle (Image: Neil Priddle)

“It was really nice to give that much money to Mind. To be able to make that little bit more (than last year) and hit that £3,000 target was great,” said Ashley.

“With everything going on at the moment – we’re in unprecedented times, as people keep telling us – and to be able to give something back to people when they’re worried about the cost of living and war in Ukraine was amazing.

“People said it was more structured compared to last year, and it was lovely to have more group numbers than last year.

“It was amazing to finish on such a poignant song.”

A total of 828 tickets were sold for the show, and a further £850 was made on the raffle. Prizes included Mamma Mia tickets and signed West End posters.

Ashley added: “We’re really grateful for everyone who had supported us and donated. We’re pencilled in for a project next year on September 2.

“We’re hoping to do it for Prostate Cancer UK and bring the same performers back.”

Ashley has thanked Ken Baker for his help organising the show, plus his fellow performers, attendees, and donors to the raffle.