Double lung transplant survivor Charles Michael Duke from Highcliffe brings celebration show to Christchurch Regent Centre
HIGHCLIFFE double lung transplant survivor Charles Michael Duke will mark the third anniversary of his life-changing surgery with a celebratory show at Christchurch’s Regent Centre.
Charles Michael Duke: Three Years On reveals more about the 26-year-old’s incredible journey and subsequent stage career in a special show on Saturday 16th October at 7.30pm.
Charles, who has appeared on ITV’s Loose Women and BBC’s This Is My Song, will talk about his life and perform various accompanying of songs.
Born with cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease which affects the lungs and digestive system, Charles experienced years of ill health before he was eventually told he needed a double lung transplant.
After three years of waiting and three failed matches, his transplant finally went ahead in 2018.
Charles said: “The global pandemic has resulted in the show being delayed three times, but now we are ready to celebrate!”
Since his transplant, Charles has played leading stage roles including Buttons in Cinderella at the Regent Centre, Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar at Bournemouth Pavilion, and Sonny and Meatloaf in Believe: The Cher Songbook on a UK tour. He is now taking a break from touring to perform his one-man show.
He said: “This has always been the way I imagined celebrating my transplant anniversary. I first thought of the idea a couple of years before I finally ended up having my transplant and I have been working on production ever since then.
“Previously, acting jobs have always got in the way, but I finally booked the show in and I’m so excited to get on that stage!”
The show will feature a full band, backing dancers and special guests. Charles will be performing a number of hits such as Me and My Shadow, Superstar and a lockdown-inspired Baked Potato virtual duet with Matt Lucas.
The show is choreographed by Chloe-Louisa Hughes, with musical direction from Stuart Darling. Tickets are £16.50. Visit www.regentcentre.co.uk or contact the box office on 01202 499199.
