PERFORMING on stage is provides light relief for one little girl suffering from a rare genetic disorder.

Ten-year-old Melody Towler suffers from Ehlers Danlos Syndrome – a connective tissue disorder which can cause loose joints, stretchy skin, and abnormal scar formation.

The condition affects about 1 in 5,000 people globally but instead of letting it get her down, brave Melody, of Newton Aycliffe, is using her love of performing to raise funds for charity instead.

Along with her father Peter Towler, and sisters, Kieva, 11 and Eve, seven, Melody is set to take part in the 2CC show, at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House, in Newcastle.

The variety show has been running for several years and this year's funds will be donated to the Northumberland Masonic Charities Association and the Tyne Theatre and Opera House Preservation Trust.

Mr Towler persuaded his daughters to join the show which also includes Bobby Thompson tribute Pete Peverley, The Moonstones, Tom Jobes, The Baldy Holly Band and more.

Everyone taking part both onstage and behind the scenes, including the bar staff, have given up their time for free to help the cause.

Mr Towler said: “One of the main reasons that they are taking part is the fact that they get to make fun of their dad in front of an audience."

Melody added: “I love being on stage and what I’m doing shouldn’t affect me too much, I’m really looking forward to seeing dad being laughed at in his part of the show and helping to raise money for others less fortunate than ourselves.”

  • The show will be held on September 3, at 1pm. Tickets cost £10, plus booking fees, and can be booked by calling 0844-2491000 or visiting tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk