The heart of Darlington pulsed with music and joy today as a unique choir drew people from all corners of the community.
The Voices of Darlington Choir Festival - VODFEST - was held in the Market Square from 11am to 6pm, offering a day of free live performances, solo sets, and glitter tattoos, ensuring there was something for everyone.
The Market Square was transformed into a hub of musical celebration, drawing in crowds of people in red 'Voice of Darlington' tops as full families went to support their singers.
The Voices of Darlington are renowned for their contemporary, fun, and inclusive approach to choir singing.
With sessions held every Monday and Friday at All Saints Church, in Ravensdale Road, the group welcomes all ages and abilities, fostering a supportive and dynamic environment.
This is different from your typical choir as none of its members are professionals. The focus is on having fun and reaping the benefits that singing can offer everyone.
Today’s event showcased the choir’s talent and highlighted the positive impact singing can have on mental health and well-being.
Voices of Darlington has 240 active members, with more welcome to join in September. The organisation is family-inclusive, with entire families, from children to grandparents, participating.
Dawn Castle, studio manager, said: “Singing is so therapeutic, and we want as many people involved as possible.
“By doing events like this it makes us visible, we love to get out and into the communities as much as possible.”
She added that Voices of Darlington are ready to celebrate their tenth year next year with the shows only going to get "bigger and better".
One attendee, a 67-year-old woman from Darlington who didn't want to be named, said: “It’s lovely to watch things like this on in the town, the kids seem to be enjoying themselves up there and it brings a bit of entertainment.”
Laura Chapman, who joined the choir last April, said: “From the very first moment I walked in they were so welcoming towards me and it was so much more than I expected it to be.
“It has massively improved my confidence and now because of the benefits it has had on myself, I have brought my children into the choir too.
“I now help volunteer and attend every event because it is just so uplifting for my mental health. It’s an absolutely brilliant community to be a part of.”
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Gemma Charlton, 45, a building surveyor, has two children in the choir as well as being in it herself. She said: “It is just like one big family. I can’t sing on my own but always feel so welcome because we are all there with the same interests and having just fun.
“Like when I’m in the car, I put on performances like I’m on the stage to help me practice.
“I’ve suffered from depression and when I’m down all the songs are so uplifting it creates a great space for us all to enjoy. It’s just a really great thing to be a part of and it’s made even more amazing on days and events like today.”
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