Alecia defends her Pink tribute

During a council meeting last week at which the line-up for the Shoreline Festival was revealed, Alderman Billy Ball voiced concerns about both the Pink and Lady Gaga tribute acts booked to perform at the extravaganza at Loughshore Park in Jordanstown later this month.

Speaking at the meeting, Mr Ball described the acts as “not conducive to the borough.”

No other council members appeared to have a problem with either Pink or Lady Gaga, with Deputy Mayor Tommy Kirkham even pointing out that around 800 people of all ages had enjoyed the Pink tribute act during the recent Twelfth celebrations in the Rathcoole estate.

Alecia who lives in Newtownabbey said she had been upset to read that anyone would find her show “unsuitable”.

“After reading the article in last week’s Newtownabbey Times, I would like to point out a few facts concerning my Pink tribute show which I perform all over the UK,” said Alecia.

“Pink is an icon to many people, including myself, and this is not age restrictive.

“I have however, in my five years of performing as Pink, had the pleasure of entertaining thousands of people covering all age groups.

“In particular and most recently I did a Pink Tribute show to help raise funds for Abbots Cross Primary School. A crowd of approximately 150 turned up and the majority were primary school children.

“Over the 12th of July weekend, I did my Pink show at Davy's Swings and at Woodvale Park in Belfast and the Diamond in Rathcoole.

“The crowds ranged in number from 500 to 1,500, with age groups starting as young as 4 years old.

“I have also performed in front of clergy for charity fundraising events. I carry out a lot of events for local charities in the borough of Newtownabbey and will continue to help those from disadvantaged backgrounds and those who need my help.

“When performing in front of children, I do not sing the swear words or carry out the actions that are part of some Pink songs. However, I do hear the words being chanted back to me from the crowd.

“I am also a mother; therefore I am aware that children need to be protected. I cannot believe that anyone would consider my show to be unsuitable in any instance.

“I believe that I have proved myself to be both an advocate of and an asset to the borough of Newtownabbey. I love living here, making my living here and I will continue to help those who need it.”

Meanwhile, this year’s Shoreline Festival runs from August 28 to 30. A lengthy list of activities and shows are on offer and details of what’s on can be found by logging on to www.newtownabbey.gov.uk