WATCH: Black Country Asda worker Joanne sings to raise funds for local theatre
A talented Asda worker from the Black Country has raised more than £1,600 by performing hits from the 1950s on her YouTube channel in a bid to keep local theatre alive.
Joanne Brookes, 23, who works as a home shopping colleague at Asda Great Bridge, is a member of the Crescent Theatre in Birmingham, which has had to close during lockdown.
Over the last few weeks, Joanne has been singing hits from 1950s stars including Judy Garland, Billie Holliday, Doris Day and her favourite, Peggy Lee, while asking for donations.
Joanne, who has been doing drama and dance since she was a child, studied musical theatre and drama at university.
She said: "I have been at The Crescent Theatre for two years now and I have done three shows so far.
"I got cast as Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz and that was supposed to be in May this year but because of lockdown it was postponed until September and now it's been moved to May next year.
“The Crescent may not see any of the arts funding that the Government is giving and I just really did not like the thought of my favourite theatre, my favourite place, being shut down."
Joanne said the response she had received from her YouTube performances had been fantastic. She added: "It has been amazing. I thought I would maybe get to £200, but it's more than £1,600 now.
"People have been so generous. My colleagues here at Asda are all supportive and have been watching my videos and donating too.
"I've been dressing up each time too as best I could. I went to the theatre and got some wigs and I have been to the charity shops too."
To help Joanne's fundraising efforts, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/singtosavethecrescent
