Opera for the homeless in Cardiff

Streetwise Opera is teaming with Welsh National Opera (photo: Bill Knight)

Streetwise Opera, whose motto is ‘giving homeless people a voice’, aspires ‘to bring the best of our society in terms of arts and culture and make it beneficial and accessible for those who are suffering the most disadvantage and adversity within our society’.

In their latest project, which has just been launched in Cardiff, Streetwise Opera will work with Welsh National Opera to run weekly singing workshops for the homeless led by Welsh opera stars. Participants in the scheme will watch performances at WNO and eventually take part in their own production in London in spring 2013.

Through the power of music, homeless people can build confidence, learn to re-engage with society and gain motivation for the future. Many go into work placements, or enrol in education or detox programmes thanks to the uplifting experience of Streetwise Opera.

Maria Le Brun