Opera Workshop spread musical Christmas cheer across Limerick city and county with a tour of concerts to nursing homes in the run up to Christmas.
The concerts are specifically aimed at hard-to-reach audiences in Limerick city & county. Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and ill-health can make it difficult, if not impossible, for people to attend concerts in conventional venues such as theatres or concert halls. Loneliness too, especially for older people, can be exacerbated at times like Christmas. Opera Workshop is delighted to have the opportunity to bring professional concerts to homes and day-centres making magical musical experiences accessible for audiences.
Shirley Keane, Artistic Director of Opera Workshop says, ‘The live experience of music, singing and chat is always uplifting, especially at Christmas time. Opera Workshop is grateful to the sponsors of these concerts; Limerick City & County Council Arts Office, Creative Ireland and RTE lyric fm for making it possible to reach so many people with such a great team of exceptional performers.’
The Opera Workshop ensemble members will travel to Drombana Day Centre, Ballysimon, the Marie Goretti Nursing Home in Bruff , St Camillus’ Hospital Limerick, the Alzheimer Day Centre in Garryowen, Corbally House Nursing Home and Ard na Ri in Kilmallock.
Starting the proceedings at The Park Nursing Home in Castletroy this week, the reception so far has been rapturous and generous from residents and staff.
“Our Residents were thrilled that Opera Workshop gave their time to perform at the Home. It lifted our spirits to have them entertain us as so many of our residents cannot get out and about these beautiful events. It was a wonderful experience.” said Carmel O’Carroll, Activities Co-Ordinator at The Park Nursing Home, of the opening performance.
Eve Stafford and Roisin Walsh Photo: Lucy Dawson
