Opera event in Lymington nature reserve featuring Colin Judson Ellie Laugharne, James Cleverton and Annabella-Vesela Ellis raised more than £20,000 for Forca Strength Against Cancer
A GARDEN opera event in Lymington has raised more than £20,000 for local charity Forca Strength Against Cancer.
Set against the backdrop of the town’s nature reserve, the event attracted more than 550 picnickers who enjoyed a performance from four of the UK’s most talented opera singers.
Milford tenor Colin Judson was joined by soprano Ellie Laugharne, baritone James Cleverton and mezzo-soprano Annabella-Vesela Ellis for the concert, in aid of the Lymington-based cancer support charity. They were accompanied by the talented Matthew Fletcher on the piano.
The unique open-air performance was held in the garden of Kingfishers in Normandy Lane, in collaboration with The Curious Club.
Mr Judson is a regular guest soloist at the Royal Opera House, Glyndebourne Festival and English National Opera, and is regarded as one of the most sought-after character tenors of his generation.
Event host Amanda Mann said she was absolutely thrilled with the community response. Ticket sales and donations generated more than £20,000, with further donations expected.
She said: “It really was a world class performance in Lymington.
“A friend got in touch to say her 87-year-old mother-in-law, who loves opera and used to sing madrigals, was deeply moved by the spectacular performance.
“She had her eyes closed for most of the evening when they were singing – it was such a special thing.”
Forca Strength Against Cancer is dedicated to raising funds to support local people receiving cancer treatment, and to raising awareness of how lifestyle and diet can help those living with the disease.
Run by a team of volunteers, the charity provides practical help for individuals experiencing difficulties living with cancer, such as cleaning and contributions to childcare costs.
Since 2016, the charity has operated a Nourish project providing healthy, nutritious meals for people undergoing cancer treatment and their families at Lymington hospital and Oakhaven Hospice.
It also provides supportive compression bras to women who have undergone mastectomies at two local hospitals.
To donate, visit www.forcaagainstcancer.org.uk