Talented children and supporters are to tread the boards later this year as The Archie Foundation Variety Show makes its triumphant return for 2026.
Now in its third year, the much-anticipated show will return to Aberdeen’s iconic Tivoli Theatre on Saturday, September 5.
A casting call has gone out to youngsters who have been supported by The Archie Foundation or NHS Grampian and would like to take part.
Last year’s show brought together children from across the north of Scotland, with young dancers, magicians, singers and comedians lighting up the stage in celebration of Archie’s 25th anniversary.
Among them was Fraser Wood (8), who is currently undergoing hospital treatment in Glasgow for myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a rare blood cancer – but is determined to be well enough to show off his dance moves at this year’s show.
The Primary 3 pupil, who lives in Torry with his family, was diagnosed with lymphoblastic lymphoma in 2022 and took part in the first show after missing out on months of school and his beloved football.
His mum Louise Pope said it was an amazing experience.
“When we heard about the first Variety Show on social media, Fraser was keen to try something new after missing out on so many activities and school while being isolated in hospital for months.
“Fraser didn’t know what he wanted to do but he liked dancing so he came up with a dance act with the help of Ryan, one of the volunteers. Fraser was very anxious and worried about performing as it was something he had never done before – but Ryan really helped him and even went on stage with him.”
The show helped Fraser to grow in confidence and he took part in last year’s event too, with his 5-year-old sister Freya now keen to get involved too.
“By the second year his confidence was on another level! He did another dance act which he created by himself,” said Louise. “It was absolutely amazing to see how much his confidence grew. I was so emotional to see how far he had come, from an anxious little boy to this boy full of confidence.
Fraser Wood on stage last year at The Archie Foundation Variety Show at the Tivoli Theatre.
Fraser rang the bell to signal the end of his treatment in December 2024, celebrating at the last show with his friend and fellow star Izzy Noble, who had also finished cancer treatment.
Sadly after just 10 months, he was diagnosed with MDS and started intensive chemotherapy in October, followed by a stem cell transplant.
“We will be in Glasgow for around three months and are hoping for a smooth recovery and that he will be fit and healthy for the show in September,” said Louise. “It’s the most amazing experience watching all these kids at rehearsals and to then take to the stage is incredible. Everyone is so supportive and it’s like a big family.”
Held in June, the event raised £26,006 for the children’s hospital charity, with the total topped up by the fundraising at the Kiltwalk, book sales and a clairvoyant evening.
This year’s show will include an afternoon matinee to give even more people the chance to enjoy the fun-filled family event.
Archie volunteer and show organiser Cassie McGunnigle, said: “We have been absolutely amazed by the creativity and courage of the young people who take part in the Archie Variety Show. Many of them have been through some very tough times, such as illness like Fraser or a bereavement, so to see them shine in the spotlight is so very special and often emotional.
“This year’s show will be even bigger and better, with more performers, more magic and more unforgettable moments. We’d love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved and it doesn’t matter if you don’t have a particular talent – we will find a starring role for everyone!”
The 2026 show will be supported by The Tivoli Theatre, with the music in the show provided by Vivid Horizon - and there are still sponsorship opportunities available to support the show and help raise vital funds for Archie.
All the proceeds from the show will go to Archie to help local babies, children and families during a hospital stay or following a bereavement.
The Archie Foundation has helped children and families across the north of Scotland for 25 years, funding specialist roles and projects at Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital and, more recently, at Highland Children’s Unit, Tayside Children’s Hospital and Dr Gray’s Hospital, Elgin.
Visit www.archie.org/getsupport/ for more information about the practical, financial and emotional support available from The Archie Foundation.
To sign up for the 2026 Archie Variety Show in September, visit https://archie.org/events/varietyshow/