Burlesque show to help raise cash

Nikki Siddall, a burlesque dancer under the name of Violet de la Curve, is putting on a sponsored dance performance to help Normanton-based group Air Flow.

Her brother-in-law, 12-year-old Adam Middleton joined the team five years ago.

For years, Adam, of Vener Street, Featherstone, struggled to breathe and eat as his condition left his lungs and digestive system blocked with mucus.

But while Adam still undergoes physiotherapy treatment to get rid of the blockages, he can breathe much more freely thanks to his regular exercise as part of the group.

Adam used to play a Parkour computer game and decided to try out the sport and its tricks himself.

Parkour involves rapidly moving around an urban area, negotiating obstacles by running, jumping and climbing.

He said: “I enjoy the movements and running stunts.

“And it’s quite important because it helps my lungs and it gets me active.”

Miss Siddall, 33, added: “Free running really helps Adam’s lung function and he can breathe really well after doing it.

“Running and jumping up and down and the heavy breathing all helps Adam.”

But Miss Siddall said the free running group, based at Normanton Sports Acro Gymnastics was struggling for money and found it difficult to cover the costs of the training and equipment needed for competitions and performances.

She said she wanted to put on the show to support the club which has helped to relieve Adam’s symptoms.

She said: “I have only been on stage for about three months but have been involved in burlesque dancing for about two years.

“A friend encouraged me to do the show and I really wanted to help to raise some money.”

Ms Siddall’s show, with a line-up of eight burlesque dancers, takes place at Roundhill WMRC, Roundhill Road, Castleford on September 12.

There will also be stalls, cakes and a raffle.

The event starts at 7pm. Tickets are £10 in advance or £12 on the door.