Video: Leeds singer’s night in limelight

Laurie Briggs, who lives in Pudsey, Leeds, spent years modelling and working as a TV extra on shows like Emmerdale before she turned to full-time singing over a decade ago to tour with tribute act FABBA.

The crooner switched to join a Carpenters tribute band, named The Karpenters, with which she has travelled the world singing on cruise ships.

But after years on stage she will perform under her own name for the first time at the City Varieties Music Hall, in Swan Street, on September 29.

Laurie told the YEP: “I was absolutely thrilled, it’s a nice step up to get your own show so I was chuffed to bits.

“Nobody’s ever given me my own theatre under my own name before, and it couldn’t be any better than to perform at the City Varieties.”

She said if the show is a success, she will look to put it into theatres across the region.

The Ladies of Song variety show begins with Laurie singing the music of famous names such as Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee and Shirley Bassey, before she blasts out some of the Carpenters’ greatest hits.

The show will also feature singers Peter Grant and Danny McCormack, as well as London comedian Danny Buckler and 12 youngsters from Pudsey Lowtown Primary School.

Ian Sime, general manager at the theatre, said: “It is only right and proper that Laurie should step from the shadows and be recognised for her talent under her own name.”

For tickets priced from £17.50 visit www.cityvarieties.co.uk or call 0113 2430808.