Beth Holmes

Tonight, we are remembering Beth Holmes.
Musical theatre was one of Beth’s greatest passions. A proud member of (CATS) - Children’s Amateur Theatre Society - and (BCMCS) - Bolton Catholic Musical & Choral Society. She performed in many musicals including Carousel, Into the Woods, Grease, Footloose, Fame, Ye-Ha, Joseph, and Cats. Her Uncle David, a conductor, encouraged her love of performing, and Beth shone on stage. She also gave up her time to teach Kittens, the younger children in CATS.
This evening our performers are wearing a splash of pink, Beth’s favourite colour.
Elizabeth Niamh Holmes (Beth) 10.04.2001 - 06.06.2026

Steevie-Leigh Crossley

Hi, I’m Steevie and I have been involved in music and theatre since I was 11 years old. I am absolutely honoured to be a trustee of Trust Music and to be organising tonight’s event. I was once a beneficiary of Trust Music and they provided me with the foundations and funds to create the life I have today - one I never dreamt of having. My fabulous teachers and Trust Music provided me with the skills and development to study musical theatre at Pendleton College of Performing Arts and then go on to achieve a first-class BA (Hons) Musical Theatre degree in University. Since then, I have worked as a singing teacher at Fairstage Academy of Arts and at Booths Music. Not long after, I qualified as a primary school teacher where I now take forward my passion for music as the music and art coordinator in school. In my free time, I am a very proud member of the amazing Horwich Community Choir conducted by Rachel Hughes, who was my singing teacher all those years ago and like to get involved in amateur dramatics across Bolton. Some of my favourite roles that I have played include: Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, Jo March in Little Women, The Bakers Wife in Into the Woods, Princess Fiona in Shrek the Musical, Morticia Addams in The Addams Family, Jenny Cavilleri in Love Story and most recently Belle in Beauty and the Beast which is on in a few weeks’ time here at Walmsley! Trust Music gave me an opportunity to step into a new world. I feel very blessed to now be working as a Trustee for this wonderful charity and giving back what I can to help other children in Bolton.

Katy Clayton

Hello!
I’m Katy, an actor, singer and performing arts teacher with a lifelong passion for the performing arts.
From a young age, I’ve been involved in acting, dancing and singing. During my time at the University of Central Lancashire, I was a member of their wonderful chamber choir while studying for my Music Theatre Degree.
I’ve participated in the Bolton amateur dramatics scene and have also appeared in professional film, TV and theatre productions since childhood.
My performances have taken me on tours across the UK and Ireland, as well as to the West End. I’ve had the honour of being in two world premiere productions and am featured in the original cast recording of “The Book Thief” musical. When I’m not performing, I’m part of the dedicated dream team at Interact School of Performing Arts, teaching LAMDA, Junior and Senior Musical Theatre and Infant Performing Arts.
I’m extremely passionate about helping the next generation gain confidence and knowledge through music so I’m thrilled to be part of tonight’s fundraiser.

Joe Cunliffe

Hi, I’m Joe!

Singing and performing has been a massive hobby of mine since the age of 10, performing in a variety of musicals and plays over the years with a number of the amateur dramatic societies in the Bolton area.
Some of my favourite roles I’ve played include Donkey in Shrek the Musical, Nicely Nicely Johnson in Guys & Dolls, Jim in ‘And did those feet’ and most recently, the Beast in Beauty and the Beast here at Walmsley in a few weeks time!
I am also a very loyal and enthusiastic member of Horwich Community Choir.
I’m thrilled to be part of this amazing event for a special local charity and very proud of my beautiful, better half for organising it!
Enjoy!

Jonny Cunliffe

Hi,
I’m Jonny and I’m a primary school teacher and Music Specialist.
I have been both a student and teacher with Bolton Music Service, starting at the age of 9, as a cellist, then going on to singing with Lads a’capella, Youth Choir and BMS Singers.
I studied Music Theatre at UCLan and have performed in local amateur shows around Bolton and Manchester for over 25 years. Some favourite roles I has played over the years include Shrek, Anatoly in Chess, Javert in Les Misérables and Dorsey in Parade.
More recently, I have trained and worked as a Teacher Leader in Primary Music with The Prince’s Teaching Institute. I also sang with The Manchester Chorale, conducted by Sir Karl Jenkins at The Bridgewater Hall and I have MD’d a number of musicals; Matilda, Wind in the Willows, Curtains and currently in rehearsals, MDing The Little Mermaid pantomime in South Manchester. I am delighted to have been invited to be part of tonight’s concert, and it is a pleasure to support the wonderful work that Trust Music does, alongside my wonderful brother, sister, cousin, friends and soon to be sister-in-law.

Laura Cunliffe

Hi, I’m Laura! I currently work as the Operational Lead for a small, sustainable
party-wear and tableware company.
Performing and singing have always been a big part of my life.
I began singing lessons at 12 and went on to perform in musicals with St. Philip’s and CATS Youth Theatre, taking on roles such as Madame Thénardier in Les Misérables and Vi Moore in Footloose.

While I’ve taken a step back from performing musicals in recent years, I’m truly excited to, once again, be returning to the stage—and incredibly honoured to be part of tonight’s event in support of such a fantastic charity!

Louise Gaffney

Hi, I’m Louise!
.
Born and raised in Bolton, I’ve been chasing the spotlight since the age of 16 when I began professional training in musical theatre.
I was lucky enough to earn a degree in Vocal Studies and Performance, which led to just over two years of performing professionally - and yes, I still miss the sun, sea and sequins!
These days, I work as an account manager by day and sing for joy whenever I can.

I’ve dipped in and out of Bolton’s am-dram scene over the years, and during a brief southern journey, I had the pleasure of playing Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors and Esmeralda in The Hunchback of Notre Dame - a role that stretched my heart, my voice, and my hamstrings.

I’m thrilled to be part of tonight’s show for such an amazing cause, and hope it leaves you smiling, humming, and maybe even attending your own audition.

Noah Parkinson

Hi, I’m Noah!

I have been involved in the Arts and performance from a young age, performing with Bolton Junior Youth Choir, Bolton Youth Choir and local theatre groups.
Bolton Music Service was a big part of my life, enabling great
opportunities for me to perform with ensembles such as the Greater Manchester Show Choir. My love of singing led me to study Musical Theatre at Pendleton College.
I continued my studies at The Hammond School and graduated with a BA (Hons) Degree in Musical Theatre.
I have since performed at Park Dean Resorts appearing as a featured artist in showstopper productions and cabarets, as well as hosting children’s entertainment.
I currently teach singing and musical theatre to children of all ages at Stagecoach Performing Arts and Aspire Dance & Stage. I believe I wouldn’t be where I am today, without having the support of the Music Service and wish to thank Trust Music for continuing to help young people pursue their passion in the arts.

Jordan Poole

Hi I’m Jordan, the crazy one out of the pack!

We’re onto our fourth show! Where on earth has time gone. Every time I step out on that stage I get butterflies at being able to perform at such a wonderful event.

I really am looking forward to this year’s show with the return of Trunchbull (she’s an icon and a dream role one day) only this time with a slight twist. It’s a privilege to perform more group songs with our amazing team and perform my first duet with my best friend in over 5 years… of course it’s a comedy one.
After what feels like a lifetime of performing through education and then starting my full-time role on the national railway, it feels great to get the opportunity to sing in front of an audience again. All the more special, to raise funds for such a worthy charity that is not only so close to my best friend’s heart but to all of us singers on the stage who wouldn’t dream of being anywhere else tonight.
As usual, sit back, relax and enjoy the show. Cry if you want to, laugh if you want to but most of all donate if at all possible.

Rachel Whitehead

Hi!
I’m Rachel and I’m currently working as a Speech and Language Therapist specialising in voice disorders.
Before completing my second degree to become a speech and language therapist, I completed the UCLan Music Theatre course.
I have performed for many years in amateur theatre shows and as part of choirs. I was part of the UCLan chamber choir for 3 years whilst studying Music Theatre which allowed me the experience of travelling to Shanghai, France and up and down the U.K. performing at a number of events.
Some of my favourite roles to play over the last 20 years have been Sister Mary Patrick in Sister Act, Fantine in Les Mis, Dragon in Shrek and Anita in West Side Story. I’m thrilled to be returning to the stage, after a little break away welcoming my first child into the world, to be part of tonight’s concert and to help raise money for Trust Music to support their wonderful work.

Daniel Chandler - Compere / Flute

Hello, I’m Daniel

After graduating from the Royal College of Music, I performed as a professional flautist in orchestras, chamber ensembles and as a soloist. I earned my teaching degree from Edge Hill University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Warwick.

Following a number of years as Assistant Director of Music at Merchant Taylors’ School in Crosby, I was appointed Director of Music at AKS Lytham. I’ve conducted choral societies, choirs, and numerous other groups in performances across the UK and further afield. This has included directing concerts in Westminster Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, the United Nations and in St. Paul’s Chapel, New York.

I’m currently Assistant Head of Bolton Music Service which is the lead partner of the Greater Manchester Music Hub. I’m also a Professional Mentor for PGCE students studying at the RNCM and Manchester Metropolitan University.
I am a proud Trustee of Trust Music, and I’m delighted to be compering and playing tonight. The money we raise is so valuable for the young musicians of Bolton. Thank you for your support this evening.

Amy Tinniswood - Sound / Violin

Hi, I’m Amy!
 
I am a Sound Designer, Composer, Technician and Stage Manager, and I am delighted to be supporting this concert, in aid of Trust Music, as both a technician and violinist.
I studied at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, gaining a 1st class Hons. degree in Technical Theatre & Stage Management, majoring in Sound Design.
I’ve worked on BBC Young Chorister of the Year and BBC Songs of Praise and have recently been touring with Matilda the Musical, across the UK.  
I now work, full-time, as a sound and technical engineer at the Lowry Theatre in Salford.
 
As a violinist and past member of Bolton Music Centre, I led the Bolton Youth Orchestra, and Greater Manchester Youth String Orchestra, and since returning to Bolton, I continue to enjoy performing with the Bolton Symphony Orchestra.
I hope you enjoy tonight’s show!

Jacqueline Tinniswood - Piano

Hi, I’m Jacqueline!
I’m delighted to be part of tonight’s concert,
supporting Trust Music to help young people develop their creativity and musical talents.

From a young age, I was a member of Bolton Music Centre, playing clarinet in the Youth Orchestras and have wonderful memories of performing in concerts around the country and abroad and meeting like-minded people who shared a love of music.
I have been a music specialist in the primary sector for 20 years, and as a freelance musician, I accompany soloists, choral ensembles, music festivals and music exams, alongside teaching piano.
I have made numerous recordings with the ‘The Mastersingers’ and still make occasional appearances with them, and I am accompanist for the Lancashire Trills Ladies Choir.
In my spare time, I enjoy yoga, pilates and pickleball, and, when he’s not
playing drums, taking walks & travelling with my husband and our furry four-legged companion, Casper.

Jeremy Bleasdale - Bass / Guitar

Hello, I’m Jeremy!

I recently retired as Director of Music at Bolton School Boys’ Division and now teach the guitar at the Royal Northern College of Music, Junior Department and at Bolton Music Service.

I am a member of the Bleasdale-Heywood Classical Guitar Duo which has enjoyed a thirty-five-year career giving recitals, recording, and performing at weddings & corporate events throughout the UK. I’m also a member of ‘Doctor Mantra’, a classic rock covers band which plays regularly around the Northwest.
I occasionally play bass guitar in the pit band for local amateur dramatic societies, so I am delighted to have the chance to play with the musicians and singers in tonight’s ‘Songs from the Musicals’ supporting Trust Music.

Rob Tinniswood - Drums / Percussion

Hello, I’m Rob!
By day I’m a Company Director and CFO.
I am an alumnus of Bolton Music Centre, where I was a member of various wind bands, orchestras and big-bands and then later, Bolton Symphony Orchestra, Eagley & Wingates Brass Bands.
I’ve also taught percussion for both Bolton Music Service and at Canon Slade School.
As a freelance drummer, I’ve played in the ‘pit’ for many musicals all over the Northwest.

In 2014 I became a founding Trustee of Trust Music. We established the Charity as a power for good in the lives of all children who wanted to access music, helping their musical journey both financially and with opportunities to make and perform music.
Through our campaigns, we generate funds to support music
education and engagement for young people, particularly for those who are experiencing significant financial barriers to accessing music opportunities. Since we began, we have engaged with and supported hundreds of children, many of whom have gone on to study, perform & teach music.

Thank You

Trust Music would like to thank:

Walmsley Parish Community Hall for hosting tonight’s event
John Clayton for all his help & assistance, and his team on the bar
Bolton Music Service for providing sound & musical equipment.
Walmsley Church AODS for providing lighting and seating.
Julie Holmes for this evening's table decorations.
Bolton Youth Harmonies, Olivia Hamblyn & Tom Campbell
Steevie-Leigh , Jacqueline & Rob for organising this event;
Daniel for compering the evening
Our singers; Katy, Laura, Louise, Rachel, Steevie, Joe, Jonny, Jordan & Noah and the musicians, Amy, Jacqueline, Daniel, Jeremy & Rob
Carolyn & Nick Baxendale, Jane & Ian Hampson & Sheila Tonge for all their help and support today and this evening.

And finally to you, our audience, for supporting tonight’s performers, and by doing so, raising money for Trust Music.
100% of tonight’s fundraising will be directed to Children in Bolton who need our help.

If you would like more information about the work that we do, or would like to become a Friend or Supporter of Trust Music, please click on the links at the head of this page and take a look around our website!
If you would like to make a donation, please click below, where you can make a one-off donation or become a regular supporter of our Charity

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