Shine Community Children’s Choir spent December feeling very excited and proud. Their performances of ‘Don’t Be Afraid’, a musical nativity, showcased how super they are. Forty seven boys and girls wowed the audience with wonderful singing, beautiful soloists and brilliant storytelling. We were reminded that the doubt, fear and panic we can all feel at times can be replaced by the love, joy and hope from meeting Jesus. Thank you to all who came and supported the choir and choir team, especially Mayor Ken Robson and Mayoress Elaine Robson, members of our church family and local school staff.
Thanks also to Brian Nichols who came along to capture the event with some great photos. Following on from that, SHINE embarked on a special mission, to sing in all six care homes in our town in one day and ‘Shine On Tour’ was formed.
We were greeted warmly everywhere we went, bringing smiles to all. The residents, care home staff and visitors joined in with traditional Carols and enjoyed listening to Christmas songs. Our mission took most of the day, but was totally worthwhile – the children expressed how nice it was to see everyone happy and that they felt proud of giving some time to bring cheer to others at Christmas. Thank you to all the homes for the chocolate which kept us all going. The tour bus was provided and driven by Nev Jones (free of charge), a massive thanks to him, we couldn’t have managed without you. Nev gained his honorary SHINE hat for being such a superstar. The tour bus was filled with singing as we travelled between care homes – all enjoyed a well deserved pizza, garlic bread and ice cream on our return. We had so much fun we plan to do this again.
SHINE ended the year with a party, dancing, games and a VIP visit from a very busy man in a red suit. Again, thanks go to all the parents / carers / supporters of the choir and for the kind £100 donation from Brian Nichols which helped us celebrate so well.
SHINE takes a well deserved break for January and returns on 6th February for an exciting year ahead, we do have a few spaces left, please come along, or get in touch, if you would like to join us. We rehearse Monday evenings 5-6pm in St Clare’s Hall – children can join from five years upwards and be part of a friendly, inclusive group which grows language skills, social experiences and is, quite simply, lots of fun. Facebook: ‘Shine Community Choir’ or contact Helen on 07716 801262 for more information.
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