A MUSICAL theatre choir is performing in an exciting concert with a renowned choirmaster.

Fordingbridge Musical Theatre Choir, led by Olivia Sparkhall, will perform at Poole Lighthouse on November 7 as backing singers for Gareth Malone’s tour of Sing-Along-a-Gareth: My Life Through Song.

Gareth Malone OBE is known for presenting TV series including The Choir and BBC’s Pitch Battle, and now he has invited the choir to join him for the second year in a row.

Choir leader Olivia, 48, has been ‘really lucky’ to work with him before said: “He’s really great to work with, really down to earth, really nice to work with and he knows how to bring out the best in everyone.

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“We started rehearsing at the beginning of term in September, working every week on the repertoire so we’re ready for him. We’re working really hard; my choir are so motivated.”

'We're working really hard; my choir are so motivated''We're working really hard; my choir are so motivated' (Image: Olivia Sparkhall) The choir, which was formed in September 2023, will bring 50 of its 80 members to the Lighthouse to sing songs from The Greatest Showman, Les Misérables and The Lion King.

Some members did the concert last year, but for some it’s their first concert as members of the choir having joined in September 2024.

“When you run a choir, it’s more than just working on rehearsals, it’s the company and working together and supporting each other, making friends”, Olivia said.

The choir is ‘always looking’ for new members. Anyone interested can contact Olivia at olivia@singspacechoir.com. To buy tickets to this exciting concert, click here.