Shapeshifter Productions are running free weekly virtual singalong sessions aimed at the older generation and isolated people of all ages during the pandemic.
Launched in September and released every Monday, the Smiling Sessions feature celebrity guest performers and a range of popular and favourite songs. Each session comes with on-screen lyrics and is accessible via an online app and also as downloadable links and mp3s.
Among the celebrities lined up to take part in the second series of the sessions are KT Tunstall, Brian McFadden, Chris Difford, Alfie Boe, Hollyoaks actress Twinnie, Merrill Osmond and Basil Brush. They perform a range of well-known songs like ‘Fly Me to the Moon’, ‘Edelweiss’, ‘Secret Love’, ‘Will you Still Love Me Tomorrow’ and ‘Moon River’.
Shielding Care home residents are currently rehearsing for a mass singalong in tribute to Dame Vera Lynn on Remembrance Sunday.
Shapeshifter productions began in 2007 as a not for profit performing arts organisation based in Waltham Forest, London. Their website shares,
“Our first project was to develop and produce a large-scale, outdoor arts show called WILDFIRE! Funded firstly for two years by the Arts Council England, our show was then commissioned by Homecoming Scotland and Creative Scotland. We gained charitable status in 2011. Since then we have gone from strength to strength, creating new projects and reaching new audiences across London and beyond.
Our vision is to reach out and touch the hearts of people through delivering original, world class, arts productions & participatory community projects.”
Carmarthen Town council have shared news of the project on social media in hope that it will benefit local residents. The Smile Sessions online has reached over 2150 care homes across the UK, with a team of professional musicians delivering 688 live singing sessions.
Founder and Artistic Director of Shapeshifter, Alison Jones, has over 30 years’ experience as a professional musician, composer and arts practitioner. She says
“With the effects of Covid-19 still very much with us, it’s more important than ever to reach out to everyone who may still be isolated; to support their wellbeing and mental health. Music and singing have always been a great means of raising spirits and keeping people of all ages healthy. More and more research is showing the power of music to heal the brain, the imagination and the heart. Without regular human contact or stimulating, life-affirming events to enjoy, many people are still confined and feeling even more lonely and disconnected.
We want to raise awareness of the power of song and the impact singing has on health, wellbeing and mindfulness, no matter what your age may be. We also want to build an awareness with the public of the terrible isolation many people are still experiencing. With the link between music participation and improved emotional wellbeing well documented, we believe that regular participatory music programmes should be considered essential for all UK care homes.”
We hope you also feel inspired by the Smiling Sessions – find out how to join them here.
