As I sit down to write about Will Chandler, a Norfolk-based Cliff Richard lookalike and tribute act, I am reminded of the power of faith and perseverance. Will’s story is one of hope, resilience, and devotion, and it is a privilege to share it with you. Will has recently launched a brand-new show for church mission, entitled “Walking in the Light,” following a complete recovery from a recent cancer scare. This new show is a testament to Will’s unwavering faith and his determination to use his talents to spread the message of God’s love. The show, which includes Cliff Richard’s biggest hits, such as “Summer Holiday,” “Livin’ Doll,” and “Miss You Nights,” also features some of the old Gospel songs that Cliff used to sing on his own tours to churches with “Crusaders” many years ago.
Will’s journey to becoming a tribute act is a fascinating one. He has been a Christian since the age of nine and has been involved with Christian ministry in one form or another for most of his life. He spent 10 years as a pastor of two churches, and it was during this time that he discovered his passion for music and performance. In 2007, he created the “Cliff As If” show, which has taken him all over the UK and across Europe, performing in theaters, holiday centers, cruise ships, clubs, concert halls, churches, and many private functions for some famous people. His show has been described as “one of the world’s best-loved tribute acts,” and when Sir Cliff Richard met Will in 2008, he was astonished at how much Will looked like him. Cliff even joked, “it is great to meet me!” Will’s show has brought joy to thousands of people, but his heart has always been in mission and evangelism, sharing the Gospel and using his platform to spread the message of God’s love.
In April 2022, Will’s world was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with malignant Melanoma cancer and given a terminal prognosis of six months to two years. However, Will’s faith remained unwavering, and he never had any doubt that he would survive. He has always experienced God moving in his life, and this was just another faith hurdle to get over. Will said, “I was not moved at all to any state of panic or fear about what lay ahead of me when I received the news, because having experienced God move in my life many times, this was just another faith hurdle to get over.” He is a living testament to the power of faith and the importance of trusting in God’s plan. Will’s health has always been a priority, and he maintains a vegetarian diet and runs up to four miles a day. His determination to stay healthy is a testament to his commitment to his faith and his passion for life.
Will’s experience with cancer has given him a new perspective on life, and he is now more determined than ever to use his platform to share the Gospel. He is relaunching his “Cliff As If” show, and many churches have already taken on the show, not only for mission but also for fundraising. Cromer Parish Church used the show to raise money for Tearfund in 2023, when over 300 people attended, and £2,500 was raised. Will is still seeking the Lord’s guidance on how much he should perform his “Cliff As If” act, but he is committed to using his talents to spread the message of God’s love. He presents a Christian music show, “Gotta Get Gospel,” on Poppyland Radio, which has more listeners than any other show on the station. The show features Christian music old and new and has a section highlighting new artists.
Will’s new “Walking in the Light” show is a culmination of his passion for music, his faith, and his desire to spread the message of God’s love. He believes that a good way of getting family members, friends, and neighbors into church is by inviting them to a Cliff Richard Tribute Show. The show is a fun and entertaining way to share the Gospel, and Will is committed to using his platform to make a difference. He says, “All the church needs to do is to provide the building and invite people, and leave the show up to me. I’ll provide the lights, sound, and entertainment.” Will’s show is a testament to the power of faith and the importance of sharing the Gospel with others. His story is a reminder that with faith, anything is possible, and that God can use anyone to make a difference.
As I conclude Will’s story, I am reminded of the importance of perseverance, faith, and determination. Will’s journey has not been easy, but his commitment to his faith and his passion for spreading the message of God’s love has given him the strength to overcome any obstacle. His “Walking in the Light” show is a shining example of how God can use anyone to make a difference, and I have no doubt that it will bring joy, hope, and inspiration to all who experience it. If you are interested in learning more about Will’s tribute act, you can visit his website at cliffasif.co.uk. Will’s story is a testament to the power of faith, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to share it with you.
