TRIBUTE has been paid to a cast member in a forthcoming Keighley show who has continued to prepare for her dream role despite battling serious illness.

Charlie Holmes is playing the narrator in Keighley Musical Theatre Company's production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, a part she has long dreamed of fulfilling.

A diagnosis of stage two breast cancer, and a subsequent course of intensive treatment, failed to stop her pursuing the ambition.

And she attributes the rehearsals and support of fellow cast members to helping her through the hugely challenging chapter of her life.

Charlie faced chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy following her diagnosis.

"When rehearsals for the show started they couldn't have come quickly enough," she says.

"The treatment's side effects took a toll on my emotional wellbeing, but rehearsals were a source of therapy.

"Joining the cast I found solace, camaraderie and a renewed sense of normality, with the unwavering support of my fellow cast members. Keighley Musical Theatre Company played a pivotal role in my turnaround."

Charlie's 'love affair' with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat began in 1992 when, as a young child, she was taken by her grandmother and aunt to see the show in the West End.

"Her grandma always tells the story of how Charlie was mesmerised from start to finish, captivated by the narrator – played by Linzi Hateley," said a spokesperson for Keighley Musical Theatre Company.

"You can usually catch Charlie on vocals alongside Bingley band Sawdust but her love for singing started that very day when she saw Linzi as narrator in the West End production. When we advertised auditions, this ignited the flame again for Charlie, who after all knew every word from start to finish!

"Charlie's love for theatre and her steadfast pursuit of her dream role were undeterred even in the face of adversity when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

"She kept spirits high, in her own words with 'positivity, strength, grace and sass'!

"Charlie's journey from adversity to triumph is testament to her resilience, passion for theatre and unyielding spirit. Keighley Musical Theatre Company is honoured and proud to have her as part of the cast for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which is set to dazzle audiences."

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is being performed at Victoria Hall, Keighley, from October 14 to 21.

For further information and tickets, visit keighleymtc.com.