In a case of fantasy mimicking life or perhaps vice versa Dundee woman Gemma Duffy has swapped her day job as a clerical assistant with Dundee City Council and karaoke forays for a starring role on the stage.
Joining a cast which includes some well-known faces including Sarah Jane Buckley (Hollyoaks’ Kathy Barnes), John Altman (EastEnders’ Nasty Nick) and former boyband heart-throb Antony Costa from Blue Gemma (23) debuted at the Webster Memorial Theatre, Arbroath, in comedy musical Pop Star after winning a competition supported by Tay FM.
Written by Dave Simpson and directed by Stephen Leatherland, Pop Star is billed as a feel-good comedy musical that takes a hilarious look at the phenomena of talent and reality shows.
The show follows six wannabe popstars prepared to do virtually anything to hit the big time, features almost 30 songs from the performers including Gemma and the audience can see what goes on when the cameras are off.
Gemma, who lives in Pitfour Street with her partner Steve McDonald, admitted she was nervous about her stage debut, but said, “I’m determined to make the most of my chance, and who knows, this could be my chance to launch my own showbiz career.
“I heard about the competition on the radio and had already pretty much decided to put myself forward when my mum Karen phoned and told me I just had to.”
Gemma and her fellow stars are in action Monday and Tuesday night, after which the production heads for Dumfries and another local star will have their chance to shine.