Stakes are high as Casey supports global DJ Woody

Dope Promo is playing host to scratch DJ and turntablist DJ Woody at the Waterloo Music Bar on Saturday.

And in support, they’ll be joined for a guest appearance by Casey Spence, who appeared on ITV series Bring Back Borstal four years ago.

Originally from Sunderland, Casey, 23, moved to Blackpool and took part in the ITV show to help get a fresh start and break out of his drug problems at the time.

Now he’s being mentored by Eye The Bomb’s Ric Hulme and rapper Carl Golder for a new Channel 4 and BBC documentary following young MCs and rappers trying to break into the music industry.

“Carl brought Casey down to our studio eight weeks ago and he really flourished as we were jamming,” Ric said. “We found he could sing as well as rap and was a natural in the studio, and he’s branching away from pure grime as a standalone artist.

“We’re made up to have met Casey, he’s a great character; full of beans and doesn’t stop talking.

“He’s had his problems, but has a new job as a labourer, as well as having two young children and is really putting his efforts into the music - and we think he has the potential to make it big.

“We just hope he keeps his cool on stage supporting a world famous act, that’s pretty daunting on its own but to have a crew filming your first appearance on stage as well, that shifts the stakes much higher for Casey.”

Ahead of Saturday’s big night, Casey will get a rehearsal as part of tonight’s Blueprint open mic night at the South Shore music venue.

Entry on Friday is free, with cash or food donations requested for Streetlife.