On August 10, 2023, Highgrove House welcomed a dozen young adult members of the British Pageant, who sang their way into the hearts of the residents with golden oldies such as Moon River, Yesterday, and Stand By Me among others.
The Highgrove House in Chorley provides care for over 40 residents with a wide range of long-term or temporary needs.
Pam Lockett, who retired from teaching at an all-boys school after 35 years, has been the activity coordinator at Highgrove House for over 4 years. She welcomed the group and encouraged the young adults to mingle with the residents for a bit before performing. “It was a highlight of their day and I hope you can come again,” she said encouragingly.
The young adults are performers from the core cast performing in the British Pageant in Chorley. The British Pageant tells the inspiring story of Heber C. Kimball and other missionaries of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who, in 1837, sailed from the United States of America to England to preach the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. It reenacts the amazing experiences of those who heard and embraced their message.
A core cast member, Derek Black said, “I really enjoyed visiting with the residents and talking about their families with them.”
Assistant Director, Susan Arnold, remarked, “The whole cast is tired from so much rehearsal and performing over the past two weeks and could have easily stayed back to take a nap. But we wanted to come, to focus on others and not just ourselves. We like to give back to the community in such an intimate setting.”
Natalie Furbank, Pageant Company Manager, added, “It’s always an honour to represent the Church in giving service. The residents responded so well, and the experience reminded me of visits to my 96-year-old grandmother.”
How Great Thou Art, an internationally beloved hymn, was the last number performed and residents were happy to join in singing, leaving the room with a feeling of love and community.
