A RENOWNED Scottish singer is set to play a benefit concert to help a Palestinian family attempting to flee Gaza.
Christine Bovill, whose sellout shows Piaf, Paris and Piaf to Pop have toured internationally, will perform in Glasgow next month at a concern organised by International Solidarity Movement activist Mick Bellmooney.
Proceeds from the show – which will feature Bovill performing songs by Edith Piaf, Leonard Cohen, and a range of 20th century American jazz numbers – are set to go towards a fundraised for the family of Maisa Zidan.
Bellmooney worked with Zidan during several missions to Palestine in the 2000s.
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However, Zidan’s parents, two brothers, sisters-in-law, and three nieces and nephews remain trapped in Gaza as they try to raise the funds to reach relatives in Jordan.
“Like many people around the world, I’ve done charity work and have given my voice to line-ups for Palestinian causes for the past 12 years,” said Bovill.
“The reason I’m doing this concert is because the situation in Gaza has become a greater tragedy than any of us could have imagined. All I can do is give a concert and I’ll be doing some songs that reflect our shared humanity.”
Bovill, who grew up in Cumbernauld and now lives in Troon, is known for her unique interpretations of French songs.
Her first show, Piaf, tells the story of her own life through the music of legendary French singer Edith Piaf, who Bovill first discovered at the age of 13.
Bellmooney said the money from the concert is desperately needed by Zidan’s family in Gaza.
“Maisa’s family’s home is gone; they are eating weeds.
“Her father, who 10 years ago had a triple heart bypass, has lost four stone in weight.
“Governments won’t help, charities cannot help and so it is up to us now.
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“I will go to Cairo myself to deliver the money and help coordinate the rescue.
“The money raised from this concert will help pay for their safe passage.
“It’s going to be a wonderful evening of song with the fabulous Christine.”
The concert will take place at Oran Mor in Glasgow on May 2 at 7pm.
Ticket for the show are available to purchase on TicketWeb.
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