NHS Lothian Staff Join Scottish Opera for Triumphant Performance of Oedipus Rex

NHS Lothian staff members have earned rave reviews for their participation in Scottish Opera’s recent production of Oedipus Rex at the National Museum of Scotland. As part of the community chorus, these dedicated healthcare professionals joined forces with professional singers and musicians to deliver a powerful and memorable performance.

Thirty members of staff from various roles, services and departments across NHS Lothian, along with colleagues from NHS Lothian Charity, joined the community chorus in January and have been rehearsing diligently ever since. Under the direction of Roxana Haines, the chorus showcased their talent alongside Scottish Opera’s soloists, professional chorus, and The Orchestra of Scottish Opera, conducted by Music Director Stuart Stratford.

The production of Oedipus Rex was a highlight of the Edinburgh International Festival receiving four and five star reviews, and the community chorus’ involvement added a unique and personal touch. The show was a unique promenade performance, staged in the iconic setting of the main hall of the National Museum of Scotland with an 800 strong sell-out audience per night. By moving around the audience, the chorus created an immersive experience, drawing them into the dramatic world of the opera.

The collaboration with Scottish Opera is part of an ongoing partnership with NHS Lothian Charity’s Tonic Arts programme, providing unique opportunities for patients and staff to engage in the arts in unexpected venues to help improve health and wellbeing.

Len McCaffer, Tonic Arts Manager, praised the staff members for their dedication and enthusiasm.

I’m so proud of all my colleagues who took part in this awe-inspiring performance. It’s been a wonderful experience for everyone involved, not only in terms of artistic achievement but also in terms of personal growth and wellbeing. I’m so delighted to have been part of this. Well done everyone.”

The success of the Oedipus Rex performance demonstrates the positive impact of arts and culture on health and wellbeing. It serves as a reminder of the importance of bringing creative activities into hospitals and other healthcare settings for the benefit of patients, staff and visitors.

Oedipus Rex Press Highlights

‘…the promenading community chorus, featuring local NHS workers, may have been the crowning glory of this bold Scottish Opera staging.’  (The Guardian) Read the full story

‘Clever, powerful and engaging’ (The Stage). Read the full story

‘…having the chorus…  swirl around me was a truly memorable experience’ (The Arts Desk)

‘This immersive staging of Stravinsky’s tragedy at the National Museum of Scotland is simultaneously accessible, humanistic and even humorous’ (The Times)

‘If you want to be part of a ritual that is this year’s Festival theme, this is the show for you’ (Edinburgh Evening News)

Image credit: James Glossop

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