Edinburgh’s Got Talent finalists join charity concert

Stars of Edinburgh’s Got Talent have been handpicked to share a stage with X Factor finalists at a variety show in aid of sick and disabled children.

The winner of last year’s city talent competition, Caitlyn Vanbeck, and finalists Ross Arthur and the Edinburgh Dance Academy, will join The Risk at Young Variety 2012 next weekend, which is expected to attract an audience of around 2000.

The Capital performers were spotted by Young Variety producer and broadcaster Angus Simpson, who attended the Edinburgh’s Got Talent final at the Playhouse last October.

He said: “I was so impressed with all of the acts. However, when Caitlyn sang I thought, ‘wouldn’t it be great to have someone with a voice like that in the Young Variety show’, but suspected she might not have fitted our age criteria.

“Like the rest of the audience, I was stunned to hear she was just 13. She is singing another Adele song in our show and doing a superb job.”

Caitlyn will be joined by singer-songwriter Ross, a pupil at the Royal High School, who was highly praised at last year’s final for his self-penned song, Pretty Girl.

Angus said: “He sang one of his own songs, which I thought was very brave. Pretty Girl was very good and I think the Glasgow audience will love the commitment and the passion that he brings to it.”

He added: “One of the many highlights of the Edinburgh’s Got Talent show for me was the fabulous Edinburgh Dance Academy. Their routine lifted the roof off the place and we have asked them to perform two numbers.”

This year’s show is the fifth to be organised by the Variety Club of Scotland and will showcase some of the country’s finest up-and-coming talent at Glasgow Royal Concert Hall.

The Risk will be making their first appearance in Scotland since the X Factor tour, with next Sunday’s show raising money for children’s charity Variety Club.

Angus said: “We couldn’t be more pleased with the line-up, which truly is a variety show – there is something there for everyone. We have everything from hip-hop to ballet, from the musicals to magic and a 70-strong Glee-style show choir.

“Edinburgh should be very proud of Caitlyn, Ross and the Dance Academy. They have all been working very hard to make sure their performances are note and step perfect.”

Meanwhile, Edinburgh’s Got Talent judge and Evening News promotions manager Deborah Welsh said: “I am delighted for Caitlyn, Ross and the Edinburgh Dance Academy. They wowed us last year and Glasgow is in for a treat.

“Young Variety is an excellent chance to showcase their talent to a wider audience, as well as supporting a wonderful charity.

“It’s also encouraging for future Edinburgh’s Got Talent contestants that opportunities can and do arise from being part of the competition.”

The show starts at 7pm. Tickets cost £15 and £12 for concessions, and are available from the box office on 0141-353 8000.