Throughout March, residents in eight local care settings were treated to uplifting performances, singalong workshops, and hands-on activities led by ENO’s talented musicians and singers.
In a heartwarming collaboration that bridges generations and breaks down barriers, Westminster City Council has partnered with the English National Opera (ENO) to bring the magic of live music directly into care homes across the borough.
Throughout March, residents in eight local care settings were treated to uplifting performances, singalong workshops, and hands-on activities led by ENO’s talented musicians and singers. The initiative, funded by the council, is part of a wider push to ensure Westminster’s rich cultural offerings are accessible to all – including those who may face physical, social or economic challenges.
Opera, often seen as a high-brow art form, was transformed into an intimate and joyful experience within the walls of Beachcroft Care Home, where residents not only listened to soaring arias but also joined in with familiar tunes, made their own decorative flower brooches, and even donned colourful costumes from past ENO productions.
Deborah, a resident at Beachcroft, expressed her delight:
“It was so nice to hear such beautiful voices – the singing was superb. It was really lovely for some of the elderly people here, especially those with Alzheimer’s. You could see them light up. We had a chilled, entertaining afternoon – it was absolutely lovely.”
The project highlights the well-documented benefits of music, particularly classical music, in improving mental wellbeing, mood and even physical health outcomes such as breathing and relaxation.
Councillor Ryan Jude, Westminster’s Cabinet Member for Ecology and Culture, praised the project:
“It’s so touching to see the English National Opera bring such light and joy to our care home residents. Our city is brimming with culture, and we are determined to make sure no one is left out. Through our culture fund, we’re opening doors to creativity and ensuring everyone, regardless of age or ability, has access to Westminster’s vibrant cultural scene.”
Annilese Miskimmon, Artistic Director at ENO, echoed this sentiment:
“We are delighted to work with Westminster City Council through our new ENO in the Community programme. Thanks to the council’s funding, we’ve been able to reach people who might not otherwise have access to live performance. Music can be a powerful source of human connection and joy, and this programme is all about sharing that.”
This initiative is part of ENO Engage, the organisation’s education and outreach department, which works to bring opera to new and diverse audiences. As the final notes faded in care homes last month, what remained was a renewed sense of joy, connection, and the power of shared experience – all thanks to a little opera, a lot of heart, and a council committed to inclusive culture.
