Acclaimed classical duo to headline Derby Cathedral ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ concert in aid of local eating disorder charity on Vernon Gate in Derby
First Steps ED, Derby’s nationally recognised eating disorder charity on Vernon Gate, has announced its most ambitious fundraising event to date – a spectacular concert at Derby Cathedral featuring internationally acclaimed classical duo the OperaBabes’ on Friday 19th June.
The evening, which will form part of the OperaBabes’ 25th anniversary celebrations, is expected to draw an audience of 500-600 people and will raise vital funds for the charity’s early intervention and specialist support services.
For OperaBabe Karen England, who grew up in Derby, the concert carries a deeply personal significance. Her daughter lives with an eating disorder, giving Karen a first-hand understanding of the urgent need for accessible, specialist support.
She said: “First Steps ED does extraordinary work. This is a cause very close to my heart and I’m proud that our anniversary tour can play a part in supporting it.”
Founded in Derby in 2004, First Steps ED has grown from a locally rooted initiative into a charity supporting individuals and families across the UK. Eating disorders carry one of the highest mortality rates of any mental health condition, yet timely intervention can be life-changing – and lifesaving.
Daniel Magson, CEO at First Steps ED, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be staging what will be the largest fundraising event in our charity’s history. The OperaBabes’ bring real prestige to this occasion, and every ticket sold, every partnership secured, will directly help us support more people with eating disorders.”
The concert programme will showcase an outstanding line-up of performers, including a professional string quartet led by internationally acclaimed violinist Dora Chatzigeorgiou, the mixed-voice choir A Choir’d Taste, the renowned Dalesmen Male Voice Choir, the OperaBabes’ daughters, and a special performance from a choir representing The Ecclesbourne School – the Derby school attended by Karen England. Musical accompaniment will be provided by Alexander Binns, Director of Music at Derby Cathedral, with the concert under the musical direction of Paul Marshall.
Tickets are on sale now with all proceeds going directly to First Steps ED. You can buy tickets here: You’ll Never Walk Alone – OperaBabes Charity Concert Tickets, Friday, Jun 19 from 7:30 pm to 9:45 pm | Eventbrite
