Our Dementia Choir began as a BBC documentary in 2018, which saw Nottingham born actress Vicky McClure go on a journey to discover how the power of music can benefit those with dementia. After helping care for her late grandmother, who lived with Alzheimer’s, Vicky discovered the ‘healing power’ of music. This led her to explore how music could be used as a powerful tool to improve the lives of people living with dementia.
As a result, the Our Dementia Choir was formed for people with dementia in Nottinghamshire. The choir now performs across the country, powerfully demonstrating the transformative impact of music.
Michael Sumption, joint president at The Rotary Club of Rotherham, said: “We are proud to welcome the esteemed Vicky McClure’s Our Dementia Choir to Rotherham led by Daniela Smith, the choir’s musical director.
“Alongside them will be Rotherham’s mixed voice choir, Friends in Harmony, led by musical director Graham Cowley.
“On Miss McClure’s choir’s CV are venues including Nottingham Forest football ground, the Splendour Festival held in Nottingham’s Wollaton Hall grounds, and the Cavern in Liverpool and they have also recorded at the famous Abbey Studios.
“Our Rotary Club’s bringing the ODC to Rotherham has been possible with sponsorship by the Home Instead Foundation, and KCM Waste Management who will be promoting the concert, which is in aid of Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity.
“The big question is – will Miss McClure make an appearance at the Rotherham show?
“We are told she often does, depending on her filming commitments, so we will just have to wait and see!”
Rachael Dawes, Head of Charity and Engagement at Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity, said: “We are thrilled that Vicky McClure’s Dementia Choir is coming to Rotherham! We cannot thank The Rotary Club of Rotherham enough for choosing to support our Dementia Appeal through this fantastic event. The Rotary do absolutely incredible work in our community, and their support will make a big difference.
“The appeal aims to raise £250,000 to transform multiple ward areas at Rotherham Hospital into welcoming, dementia friendly spaces. Unfamiliar surroundings, loud noise and disruption to daily routines can make a hospital stay distressing for people living with dementia. This appeal will change that for the thousands of people in our community facing dementia, who, at some point will likely require a visit to hospital.”
The show starts at 7pm. Tickets cost £12 plus a booking fee. Book tickets here Rotary club of Rotherham event tickets from TicketSource.