News
We are hugely grateful to Meath Dad and international Bass singer Brindley Sherratt who set about supporting the charity, by calling upon his opera performer friends to join him on stage at an Opera Gala, at The Grange, Hampshire. Brindley, his family and friends joined forces with The Meath to put epilepsy and the people we support centre stage.
Against the backdrop of increasingly tight local authority funding packages and the ever-rising cost of living, Brindley’s desire to help bring in vital income for the charity through the staging of the very special concert has never been so appreciated or needed.
The Meath Opera Gala took place in the stunning setting of The Grange, Hampshire on Sunday 15th June 2025. For any Opera buff, a glance at the line-up of performers would tell them that the calibre of performers, all on stage together, would make for a rare and magical concert.
The Meath Choir – Reaching for The Stars
However, certainly for all at The Meath, it was the inclusion of the joyously effervescent Meath Choir that led to the auditorium alchemy that saw the full house singing and signing along. Now in their eighth year, The Meath Choir, have performed over the years on increasingly larger stages.
Maria, a choir member who lives at and is supported by The Meath, was thrilled to perform on stage at The Opera Gala Concert.
“I felt very proud but I was nervous as I didn’t want to let anyone down. The audience loved Opera but they also loved us! When we sang ‘Reach for The Stars’, every single person joined in with Makaton signing! I am pleased that they also learnt about epilepsy because it affects me and my friends.”
The Opera event provided a rare opportunity for the charity to put epilepsy and disability under the spotlight, Lee Bennett, CEO explains why this was an important moment for all at The Meath.
“We are proud to recognise ability every day at The Meath, but epilepsy, disability and the vital role of adult social care are not often put in the spotlight. It was wonderful therefore, for the people we support to be able to showcase their talent and for so many people to enjoy such an incredible Opera Gala in support of The Meath. As well as raising awareness, we are of course thrilled that the event raised much needed fundraised income at a time when budgets are overstretched. I am hugely grateful to Brindley and his family, his fellow Opera singer friends and all who gave so much time and effort into making the concert such a tremendously enjoyable, special and meaningful event.”
A word of thanks from Lucy Miguda, Head of Fundraising
“What an extraordinary event, in aid of supporting some extraordinary people! Our recent event was a perfect example of what we can achieve when we come together. From the dedicated team who worked hard behind the scenes, to every guest, volunteer, and supporter who joined us — thank you so much for making the day so memorable. It was a stunning day in the most beautiful location, the singing was sublime from all the incredible performers and of course The Meath Choir were outstanding. We are so incredibly grateful to be able to hold events such as this which not only raise awareness of epilepsy and disabilities but also help us raise much needed funds; thank you!”
All at The Meath Epilepsy Charity are extremely grateful to Brindley and his family, all of the performers who gifted their talent in aid of The Meath and for the many volunteers who enabled the delivery of the concert. We would like to extend our heartfelt, special thanks to Mark and Sarah Holford for their kind support with the organisation of the concert. We will treasure the memory of the Opera concert and are extremely grateful for its long-lasting positive legacy.
Take a look at The Meath Gala Opera Programme here Opera Gala at The Grange in aid of The Meath Epilepsy Charity Programme
Performing in The Meath Gala Opera were:
Chris Addison (Compere)
Louise Alder
Julius Drake
Huw Montague- Rendall
Phoebe Gaydon
David Junghoon Kim
Brindley Sherratt
Christine Rice
Elizabeth Llewellyn
Matthew Fletcher
Catherine Wyn-Rogers
Gerald Finley
Alexandra Oomens
Nicky Spence
The Meath Choir, Godalming & Guildford Jazz Choirs
with Mark Holford as Pledge Master
