Singing student performs with pop idols

A LOCAL student is preparing for the show of his life – performing alongside two of his idols, Michelle McManus and Britain’s Got Talent star Edward Reid.

Musical theatre student Curtis Desire, 19, from Leith, will perform with the stars at ENABLE Scotland’s Ladies Lunch in Glasgow next month.

Learning disability charity ENABLE Scotland is close to the heart of the talented young singer, as he has a learning disability himself and has been supported by the ENABLE Scotland to realise his dream of pursuing a career in the arts.

He was part of ENABLE Scotland’s innovative Stepping Up programme, which aims to get young people who have learning disabilities into work.

Curtis is currently studying at the Glasgow Academy of Musical Theatre Arts, and on Monday met Michelle and Edward for the first time, talking to them about the songs he will be performing at the lunch on Sunday, March 11 – the theme of the event is Scotland’s Got Talent.

He said: “I remember back in primary school when Michelle won Pop Idol, singing along to her song. As a fan of Britain’s Got Talent I watched Edward Reid’s audition, so to be singing alongside them both is a huge honour and privilege.”

Michelle said: “I am always keen to support Scottish charities. When you meet people like Curtis who are involved in ENABLE Scotland’s projects, you can’t help but feel passionate about the work of the charity.”