MY charity, Jacqui’s Million, raises much-needed funds for Leeds Cancer Centre. I’m also known for my work of over 30 years in theatre as a choreographer and as the Principal of Debut Theatre School in Shipley and Leeds.

Since retiring, due my own cancer journey, I use my skills to raise awareness and funds to help other cancer patients by staging productions. These have been really successful; I’m now on my seventh production and they’ve become annual events.

This year however is slightly different. I wanted to ring the changes but still raise funds for Jacqui’s Million, so on November 30 we’re performing Rock Nativity, with 34 brilliant singers and actors and a fantastic band lead by our incredible musical director Cathy Sweet who, like me, is a patient on treatment at Leeds Cancer Centre. I’ve known Cathy for many years but we’ve never worked together, so this is a dream; us both at the helm doing what we do best to help other cancer patients.

When I decided to do this I was contacted by St James Community Church, Bolton Road, who said they’d love to host the production. I couldn’t believe my luck as it’s a fabulous venue. I was in Rock Nativity as a dancer at the Alhambra back in 1996 and have choreographed it twice, at Bingley Arts Centre and Guiseley Theatre, so I know how special it is. It’s not staged very often and certainly not in a church! It’s the most enchanting musical for Christmas, with wonderful music by Tony Hatch and Jackie Trent and lyrics by David Wood.

When I staged the show before we never used a doll to play baby Jesus and I was adamant that this year would be no different. Luck fell my way when I found out that one of my ex Debut students, Sarah Whiteley, was expecting a baby. I contacted Sarah about my crazy proposal and she said yes! Her beautiful baby girl, Joni Florence, will be the icing on the cake for the production when Mary sings the ballad I will watch you grow. It’s so moving, giving optimism and hope.

Claire Gardiner, who plays Mary, with baby Joni FlorenceClaire Gardiner, who plays Mary, with baby Joni Florence (Image: Jacqui Drake)

So, with a real baby, the show is at James Community Church, Bolton Road, Bradford, on Saturday, November 30 at 1pm and 5pm. Visit ticketsource.co.uk or call 0333 6663366.

The production is sponsored by Chadwick Lawrence. Managing partner Neil Wilson said: “We have been supporters of Jacqui’s Million for several years and we support Jacqui’s Christmas production. Rock Nativity will be an excellent show, we’re proud to support this. In terms of Jacqui’s Million generally, we support what is a great cause which benefits many local people. Jacqui’s commitment to sharing with her supporters what the funds they raise are spent on is very rewarding to see.”

Jacqui’s Million now stands at a tremendous £448,500. My goal is to break through half a million by the end of 2025, with everyone’s continued support and generosity.