A Dorset care home staged a romantic trip down memory lane for an opera-loving resident and her husband to help them celebrate Valentine’s Day.
Care companions at Fernhill, Colten Care’s dedicated dementia care home in Longham near Bournemouth, helped resident Lesley rekindle warm memories of a truly special experience.
In 2002, Lesley Malone and her husband Hugh dressed up for an evening at the Royal Opera House in London which they say has stayed in both their hearts ever since.
It was an opportunity to watch the world-famous Italian tenor Luciano Pavarotti star in a performance of Tosca, one of the composer Puccini’s most renowned operas.
Recalling the night, Hugh said: “We have seen at least 20 different operas, some of them more than once. But Pavarotti singing at the Royal Opera House performance of Tosca, you could feel the power of his voice. It was like the roof was going to be blown off. Tremendous.”
Inspired by the couple’s story, the team at Fernhill set out to recreate the feel of a glamorous night at the opera for them and fellow residents.
Staff transformed the home’s lounge with a theatrical backdrop, put up operatic posters and produced their own version of a printed programme.
Audience members, including Lesley and Hugh, dressed elegantly, enjoying bubbly, chocolates and a welcome reception amid an air of excitement as showtime approached.
Then, a ‘large special guest’ arrived, echoing Pavarotti himself, greeting residents and signing autographs.
Talented opera singer and Colten Companion Beverley McKeown provided the live music, performing beloved arias from famous operas, alongside other well-known musical favourites such as the ballad Somewhere Over The Rainbow.
Thanking Beverley, Hugh described the show, especially the chance to share it with Lesley, as “magical and amazing”.
Companionship Team Leader Cara Duroe said: “This was not only a perfect way to help Lesley and Hugh celebrate Valentine’s Day, it was an opportunity to bring back treasured memories for many of our residents through the power of music.”
