Residents Celebrate Last Night of the Proms with English National Ballet

Staff and residents at Barchester’s Ashcombe house care home in worting road were treated to a unique performance from English National Ballet’s Philharmonic Orchestra to celebrate Last Night of the Proms.

Residents joined members of English National Ballet’s Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Music Director, Gavin Sutherland, to celebrate Last Night of the Proms. They listened and danced along as members of the orchestra took them on a magical, musical journey. English National Ballet Philharmonic is made up of many of the country’s top musicians, and boasts considerable experience in all forms of music-making. With insights and anecdotes into what it takes to conduct an orchestra for a world-class ballet company, this special concert for Barchester Care Homes got everyone’s feet tapping, arms waving and hearts singing!

Fleur Derbyshire-Fox, English National Ballet’s Director of Engagement said: “We are delighted to be able to share the outstanding work of our talented Philharmonic Orchestra with Barchester’s residents and staff.  The iconic music of the Last Night of the Proms is so rousing and evocative, we felt certain this was a concert that would resonate with the residents and get everyone singing and dancing along.”

Lucy Tomlinson, Resident Experience Manager for Barchester Healthcare, commented: ““We love working with our wonderful partners like English National Ballet to bring a wide range of fantastic experiences into our homes for all to enjoy.  The session today was just wonderful and so nostalgic, our residents loved reminiscing about what the music meant to them, it brought back memories of Dancing days.

“Our varied life enrichment programme keeps residents active and socially connected, providing a daily choice of engaging physical, mental and spiritual activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities,” Lucy added.

General Manager, Louise Lambert said: “Today has been such a treat, our residents have all thoroughly enjoyed themselves.  There is nothing better than a sing-along to the fantastic music from Last Night of the Proms.  The orchestra sounded absolutely brilliant and we loved hearing their stories about what it is like to perform at that level.”