More Than 15 Minutes Of 'Fame' For Starburst Charity

Local theatre charity Starburst tonight (Thursday, 30th July) launch their all-singing, all-dancing version of ‘Fame- The Musical’.

The show features a dazzling array of dramatic talent from nearby schools and colleges, who will bring the songs and dance routines from the cult movie to life on the stage.

Fleet-People donned its leg warmers to catch up with Starburst’s Marketing Manager Carmen Rosten, to learn more about the group and their impending production.

FP: Hi Carmen. Can you give us a quick overview of Starburst and the work that you do?

CR: Starburst started life as a theatre group, raising money for various charities such as the Make A Wish foundation through our shared passion for drama.

In 2005, we took the leap to become a registered children’s charity, and since then we’ve supplied funding for specialist equipment for disabled children in the local area. Families and schools approach us directly for financial support towards items that are tremendously helpful but often very expensive.

FP: So how are you funded?

CR: Through people coming to see the productions themselves, as well as a variety of other fundraising activities such as quiz nights, stalls at local fetes, donations etc.

We’ve donated approximately £60,000 to local children since we began.

FP: How has your experience with ‘Fame’ differed from other productions?

CR: The great thing with ‘Fame’ was that we had a director lined up right from the start, and thankfully getting hold of the rights was fairly straightforward, as it’s not currently on in the West End. The remake of the film also came out last year, which has prompted a lot of interest.

We have a really fantastic cast performing this year, including our leading actress who has made it through to the final of the Live and Unsigned competition this year.

FP: Is Starburst strongly connected to Fleet and the surrounding areas?

CR: We’re linked to the community through our productions, as well as the money we donate. Starburst is a completely voluntary organisation, generally made up of local people from Fleet, Farnborough and Church Crookham.

We rehearse twice a week for our shows, so we have to keep it local!

FP: For those with any shadow of doubt in their minds, why should they come and see ‘Fame’?

CR: Ultimately we put on good quality theatre- this is no dodgy amateur dramatics affair. We won an accolade of excellence from the National Operatics and Dramatics Association (NODA) a couple of years ago, who recognise outstanding local theatre.

‘Fame’ is filled with young, talented individuals, and is going to be one of our best shows ever, so come and see it!’

‘Fame’ runs until 1st August at St. Nicholas’ School, Church Crookham. For tickets, call the box office on 07011 000782.

For more information about Starburst, visit their website here.