Gala Dinner at the Royal Hospital Chelsea

London Festival Opera presented an opera entertainment at The Royal Hospital Chelsea as the entertainment at the end of the Annual Gala Dinner as thanks for supporters.  The event was hosted by the Governor, General Sir Adrian Bradshaw KCB OBE DL.  For the final three pieces the opera soloists were joined by the Chelsea Pensioners Choir which included singing the choruses of ‘Modern Major Genera’ and ‘Nessun Dorma’.

The Royal Hospital Chelsea was founded in 1682 by King Charles II as a retirement home for veteran soldiers and designed by Sir Christopher Wren inspired by the Hôtel des Invalides in Paris.  The Hospital is the historic home of the Chelsea Pensioners – there are approximately 300 retired military personnel living in the complex, including 30 female residents.  The choir added real vocal body to the ensemble and a stunning extra visual element in wearing their handsome scarlet uniforms.  The choir was a pleasure to work with and soloists joined musical forces with them with pride!