Mayor Enjoys a Memorable Performance of The Dream of Gerontius

On Sunday 12 April, the Mayor of Haywards Heath attended a remarkable concert performed by the Ardingly Choral Society, held in the stunning surroundings of Ardingly College.

The major performance of the evening was The Dream of Gerontius, Edward Elgar’s magnificent and deeply moving choral work. In a wonderful display of collaboration, the Ardingly Choral Society was joined by the Forest Row Choral Society and the Kidbrooke Park Singers, bringing together voices from across the region for this ambitious performance.

The concert featured an impressive lineup of soloists, including Rory O'Connor, Louise Callinan, and Rodney Earl Clarke, who also serves as Music Director of the Forest Row Choral Society. The orchestral accompaniment was provided by the Sussex Chamber Orchestra, led by Jonathan Truscott.

Conducting duties were shared between the musical directors of the three choirs, reflecting the collaborative spirit that defined the evening. Together, performers delivered a powerful and dramatic interpretation of Elgar’s work, captivating the audience throughout.

The Mayor greatly enjoyed the concert, praising the exceptional talent on display and the dedication of everyone involved. Events such as this highlight the richness of the local arts scene and the strength of community partnerships in bringing large-scale performances to life.