Multi-talented Rhodes Bank Choir prepare to light up the Saddleworth Show

Oldham-based Pennine Mencap, the leading organization in supporting individuals with learning disabilities, have announced that their renowned integrated disability choir, the Rhodes Bank Choir, will be performing at the hugely-anticipated Saddleworth Show this Sunday (June 25).

This special performance will mark a significant celebration of Learning Disability Week 2023 and highlights the extraordinary talents of individuals within the learning disability community.

The Saddleworth Show, a massive event within the local community, provides an ideal platform for Pennine Mencap to showcase the diverse abilities and creativity of its members.

As an organization committed to fostering inclusion and empowerment, Pennine Mencap believes that showcasing the talents of individuals with learning disabilities will help challenge stereotypes and promote a society that values and appreciates the unique contributions of all its members.

The Rhodes Bank Choir has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional performances, captivating audiences with their harmonious melodies and heartwarming spirit.

Comprised of talented individuals with varying abilities, this integrated disability choir beautifully demonstrates the power of unity and the joy of music.

Through their uplifting performances, the choir members inspire others to embrace diversity and embrace the potential that lies within every individual, regardless of their abilities.

Some of Pennine Mencap’s service users, and members of Rhodes Bank Choir, spoke about what it means to be involved in a project like this:

One said: “Sometimes when you sing on a stage, the way it gets the audience dancing is great.

"You get the elderly and the young, gender, race, whatever.

"They all mix together to dance, no matter who’s singing on stage.

Another added: “You get this great feeling for singing, even if I’m in a bad mood or something, choir always makes me feel good.

"It really boosts your confidence, when I’m going out and doing other [non-choir] stuff. It definitely helps you in real life.”

“I like the difficult songs the most, where we start off and everyone is getting the notes wrong or the lines.

"It gives you a real feeling of pride when we get it all right.

"And even if you don’t, you’ve got your mates next to you covering if you make a mistake.”

Learning Disability Week 2023, celebrated nationwide, serves as an important platform to raise awareness and promote a more inclusive society for individuals with learning disabilities.

By organizing this performance at the Saddleworth Show, Pennine Mencap aims to highlight the extraordinary achievements of the Rhodes Bank Choir and create opportunities for meaningful engagement and understanding between the learning disability community and the wider public.

The performance by the Rhodes Bank Choir will take place on Sunday, June 25, at the Saddleworth Show, Well-I-Hole Farm, Well-I-Hole Road.

Rhodes Bank Choir will perform at 1pm.

---

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.