In adversity, We unite
Shine a Light on Our Heroes
From Then, And Now
#vedayshine
“I am delighted that The Charlalas and initiatives like ‘Shine’ are creating awareness of the remarkable things women were capable of achieving during the Second World War, serving the country they loved. I understand the power of music and song to unite and inspire a nation.” Dame Vera Lynn.
In excess of six million women joined the UK war effort, abroad and on the home front. Millions more remained in domestic settings, raising children and caring for the elderly while World War II raged on.
Every life was changed immeasurably.
Inspired by stories from these strong, spirited and resilient women they’ve been privileged to hear when entertaining, The Charlalas have written ‘Shine (VEDAY75)’ - available on itunes and all major streaming services. Proceeds to NHS Together.
Unite In Song
The Charlalas need YOU! We’re working on the concept of a digital choir, where you can upload contributions from wherever you are in the world. Check back soon.
For The Children | Shine On
To inform and inspire the next generation, educational packs comprised of learning experiences and ‘Shine’ music and lyrics are available to download. The pack was curated with schools in mind but it is appropriate for learning from home.
We’d love to know how you get on. Send us videos, reflections or photos using the form below, putting ‘Shine On’ in the subject bar, or use #vedayshine on social media.
Send Us Your Tales | Shine Stories
The Charlalas hope the project will shine a light on the incredible, increasingly rare living history we still have the opportunity to capture and encourage you all to grab a moment with your Granny, natter with your neighbour or ask your Auntie about their experiences during the War. Being in isolation due to COVID-19 is a perfect excuse to pick up the phone, or FaceTime your family to delve into your family history.
Find out little anecdotes, ask about everyday, about love, loss and life during wartime or maybe even discover tales of heroism and bravery, then drop us a message below, with ‘Shine Stories’ in the subject bar so we can collate the precious gems.
Resources and Downloads
'Shine (VEDAY75)' is now available on all major streaming services including TikTok & Instagram Stories. To listen and download click HERE
THE LEARNING EXPERIENCE IS AVAILABLE TO DOWNLOAD HERE
For The Media
For media enquiries and bookings, please contact hello@thecharlalas.co.uk
The VEDAY75 Choir and Singing Workshops will be led by The Charlalas’ Ciara Blacker, a trained opera singer (English National Opera) with a diverse and unique portfolio career. As Artist in Residence at The Southbank Centre she specialised in both composing and premiering new contemporary works for all the venues across the site Royal Festival Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Hayward Gallery. She has a wealth of experience as a vocal teacher at The Royal Academy of Music (2006-2018) and as a Vocal facilitator on many educational projects. Ciara has worked as a Conductor and Musical Director on projects in prestigious venues such as the Royal Festival Hall, Royal Albert Hall and Royal Academy of Arts. As a Vocal Practitioner at the Southbank Centre, Ciara has curated and led workshops for massed choir on the Close Ballroom Floor, from explorations of Mahler Symphonies to ‘Pram Jams’. Working with children as part of large scale projects such as Bernstein’s Mass with Marin Alsop or singing with The Southbank Centre’s resident orchestras in London and Cologne, Ciara is equally at home performing in and leading large scale vocal projects.