DARLINGTON actress Zoe Birkett has come ‘full-circle’ and added her support to the final curtain call performance at the town's Civic Theatre.

Live at The Hippodrome will give a host of performers from Darlington and beyond the chance to take to the Civic stage before the venue closes for refurbishment.

Ms Birkett, who has just completed a UK tour sharing the leading role in The Bodyguard with Alexandra Burke, is adding her support to the farewell event.

While Ms Birkett will be out of the country on the night of the show, she visited the theatre on Friday (May 20) to record a special video message to be played during the performance of Live At The Hippodrome.

Ms Birkett, who was born in Consett, achieved fame through TV talent show Pop Idol back in 2002 alongside Will Young, Gareth Gates and Darius Danesh and has gone on to have a successful career in musical theatre.

As well as recording her personal message for the special gala event, Ms Birkett also announced her plans to create a set of Darlington-based performance workshops.

She said “When I was young there were few opportunities to get involved in the performing arts locally, to learn in a professional atmosphere from people who had the relevant experience, so I want to give something back to the people of Darlington - the opportunity to work with seasoned professionals in a set of performance workshops.”

“Announcing this at Darlington Civic Theatre just before it closes for the fabulous restoration really brings me full circle.”

Live At The Hippodrome will be hosted by national treasure Christopher Biggins and tickets cost from £18 from the box office on 01325-486555 or visit www.darlingtoncivic.co.uk