ONE of Thurrock’s best musicians is set to perform at the Backstage Centre’s first festive showcase.

Holly Hannigan, who was crowned Thurrock Contemporary Musician of the Year in July, joins comedy double-act In Cahoots as the first acts confirmed to perform at the event on Sunday, December 7.

The £13.7million centre in Purfleet, which was opened by one of Britain’s finest musicians Jools Holland earlier this year, showcases local talent every three months.

The first act will begin entertaining the crowds at 7.30pm but the bar will open at 6.30pm, with admission free.

Holly won the council-run music competition, open to all Thurrock Music Services, secondary and six form students aged between 11 and 18 with her rendition of the Whitesnake song Is This Love? at the Thameside Theatre.

Holly, a guitarist and singer, was one of eight finalists and was awarded with a place on the T-Fest bill.

She is joined at the Backstage Centre showcase by In Cahoots, a south Essex comedy sketch duo formed of Paul Raymond and Luke Manning.

The pair performed at the Edinburgh Festival this summer, where they received a number of five star reviews for their sharp, well thought-out and splendidly performed sketches.

Other acts for the Backstage Centre’s free Christmas Showcase are to be confirmed at a later date, but will feature a range of other local musicians, bands and comedians.

Thurrock Gazette:

In Cahoots: Paul Raymond (left) and Luke Manning

Entry is free but tickets are limited.

To book, visit www.thebackstagecentre.com

Thurrock Gazette:

The state of the art centre in Purfleet