Some of the West End’s singing stars have brought festive cheer to Signature Senior Lifestyle’s 13 care homes across London and the Home Counties with a special virtual performance
The pioneering 75-minute musical theatre performance, which was pre-recorded and streamed into the homes during Christmas week, included a varied blend of songs chosen by residents, from classic West End shows, and golden oldie music and Christmas jingles.
While bringing joy to Signature’s care home residents, the initiative also provided a creative outlet for the stars during a time when conventional performances have been cancelled.
The all-star ‘Signature’ line-up included John Owen-Jones, the youngest person to ever play the lead role of Jean Val Jean in Les Misérables and Louise Dearman who has played roles such as Grizabella in Cats, Adelaide in Guys and Dolls and the title role in Evita.
She made history when she was the first woman to ever play both leading roles of Elphaba and Glinda in the smash hit Wicked.
With a track record that includes West Side Story, Bombay Dreams, Rock of Ages and most recently Disney’s Aladdin, Stephen Rahman-Hughes, best known as DCI Vikesh Dasari in Emmerdale and Adam Bateman in EastEnders, brought his incredible voice into the care homes.
“As performers, we can’t help but love what we do,” said John Owen-Jones.
“So after this strange old year it’s nice to be able to do what we love for people who we know will love it.
“We have spent the year unable to do our jobs, so to be able to perform again is amazing – and to be able to perform for this audience makes it all the more worthwhile and special.”
This is the latest in a number of pioneering initiatives from Signature Senior Lifestyle to ensure its residents remain happy, healthy and connected.
Previous events have included weekly virtual shopping trips and a stand out ‘Knickerbocker Glory Challenge’ competition streamed on Facebook Live with 2016 MasterChef Winner Jane Devonshire.
Simon Dickinson, sales director at Signature Senior Lifestyle, added: “This has been an extremely challenging year for all so we are delighted to be able to have some of the West End’s biggest names coming together to create this unique performance for our residents, their families and friends.
“Christmas can traditionally be an isolating or lonely time for many people, so we are working hard to ensure we bring joy into our homes in as many creative ways as possible.
“The arts are vital to a healthy and balanced society so it is also a privilege to be able to provide an outlet for these stars during a time when the industry has faced widespread challenges in the face of the pandemic.”
To find out more about Signature’s care homes please visit www.signature-care-homes.co.uk
