An evening of folk music and West End hits unfolds at Glusburn Institute tonight.

Sclarkproductions presents charity production West End Folk, showcasing the talents of local singers Ellie Gill and Nikki Barrett.

“Ellie is an amazing find,” says director Steven Clark. “As Simon Cowell would say, she has raw talent that needs to be heard by the public. She brings a new dimension to the world of folk and country music.

“Ellie grew up on a farm and was always singing with her guitar – she was a cross between Julie Andrews and Dolly Parton!”

Ellie, who has recorded her own CD, will be singing her material as well as covers of hits such as 9 to 5 and Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue.

She’s joined by Nikki, who’s well-known in local amateur theatre circles for her roles with Sutton Amateurs and Keighley Playhouse. In recent years she has been singing on board cruise ships.

Nikki appeared in the tenth anniversary concert of Chess in Blackpool and was invited to sing at the show’s composer, Tim Rice’s, birthday celebrations. Nikki also played Eva Peron in Evita at the Leeds Grand.

“Nikki brings a sense of West End showbiz to her performances; she’s a wonderful performer,” says Steven. “She has a special talent of being able to make you cry with her rendition of On My Own from Les Miserables, or Memory from Cats.”

West End Folk, at Glusburn Institute tonight, is a one-night special, but Steven says if demand is high they’ll look to more dates. “Ticket sales have soared and we only have a few seats left, but I want everyone to hear these two talented ladies,” he adds.

Funds raised from the show, and a jewellery sale, will go to Macmillan Cancer Support.

For tickets, ring 07944 459777 or e-mail sclarkproductions@yahoo.co.uk.