ACTOR and singer Michael Ball has revealed that his New Year’s resolution is to build more bridges as he fronts a campaign to get everyone at Edinburgh’s Hogmany to share their hopes for 2011.
The actor is currently performing in Hairspray which is showing at Edinburgh’s Playhouse but he took time out to share his resolution for the New Year.
He said: “My resolution, I had a few, but the most important one I think is to build more bridges. I think there is always ways to get closer to people, to make friends with new people, make friends with new countries – all of that, all the nice things.
“As well as losing weight and not drinking too much; but those two I’ll break.”
And he added that he is having a ball playing Edna Turnblad, a character played by John Travolta in the Hairspray movie: “Hairspray has been such a success here in Edinburgh; we’ve had the best time.
“And where else would I want to be at Christmas and Hogmanay than here in Edinburgh.
Revellers at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay world famous Street Party are being invited to text their resolutions and New Year messages which will be displayed on four giant screens along Princes Square.
The messages will also appear on New Year’s Day as part of One Day celebrations in Resolution Square.
Texts are charged at £1 plus standard message rate and 25 pence from each text will be donated to Help for Heroes, a charity supporting injured servicemen and women.
Pete Irvine, organiser of Edinburgh’s Hogmanay, said: “We want everyone to be involved – not just revellers at the Street Party, it’s open to all.
“Let us know your resolution messages for 2011 – we’ll share them with over 80,000 party goers in Edinburgh and you’ll help us raise money for this worthy cause.”
Bryn Parry, Help for Heroes co-founder and CEO, said: “We at Help for Heroes are delighted that the Edinburgh’s Hogmanay organisers will be supporting us in their New Year Street Party.
“Edinburgh has played a key part in our Recovery Programme since August 2009 when, in conjunction with Erskine Scotland, the Erskine Recovery Centre was opened.
“This provides those wounded in the line of duty the very best training and opportunities to face a fulfilling future either in the forces or returning to civilian life.
“Already having such a close link to the city makes this unique opportunity even more special and we are honoured to be a part of it.
“We would like to say a huge thank you to those who have made it possible and to wish you all a very happy New Year.”
Lines open at 7pm on Friday and close on Saturday at 6pm.
Participants should text ELEVEN + their message or resolution to 82055 and should be 16 or over.
Michael Ball is appearing in Hairspray at the Playhouse Theatre until Wednesday 5 January.
Tickets are available through the Playhouse website on www.edinburghplayhouse.org.uk or the Box Office on 0131 557 2692.
ENDS
