5 Minutes with… ABC Singing Club (Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre)

03 March 2025 — jessica-bailey

We spoke to Josh Henshaw from the ABC Singing Club in Chesterfield to find out a bit more about a new singing group for anyone living with or affected by cancer, which offers people the opportunity to meet others with shared experiences and a love of singing!

Tell us about your organisation? 

ABC Singing Club is a new free and friendly singing group and part of the community outreach projects championed by our Creative Learning & Engagement department here at Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre.

We meet in Chesterfield on the first Friday of every month, 2 – 3.30pm at The Parish Centre Stonegravels, 91 Sheffield Road, S41 7JH.

Formed in 2024, this relatively new group has become a hub for members to sing, share stories, and chat. We strive to provide a safe space where members feel comfortable.

Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre is a theatre venue located in the High Peak that has many outreach opportunities within Buxton itself and the surrounding area.

What services do you offer people living with cancer?

ABC Singing Club is for anybody who is living with or has been Affected By Cancer (ABC) in any way. Whether this is yourself, or your loved one, we offer a warm welcome to all those who want to join us.

Do you have a target demographic who use your services? 

No experience is necessary, just come and have fun! Feel free to come with a friend. All ages are welcome. Refreshments are provided.

How are you funded?

With thanks to the Arts Council England funding received in 2023, Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre can expand their reach to surrounding areas, like Chesterfield, with satellite projects like ABC Singing Club.

Has anything changed for your organisation since the pandemic?

ABC Singing Club was formed post-pandemic. Although Buxton Opera House & Pavilion was temporarily closed during the pandemic, we are back in full force providing all usual pre-pandemic outreach activities, and more!

What’s the most rewarding thing about the work you do?

Head of Creative Learning & Engagement Allie Spencer says, “ABC Singing Club is a chance for everyone to put their cares aside for 90 minutes. It is a chance to relax, sing, laugh, drink tea and eat cake. The atmosphere is really friendly, and people go away feeling stronger. Singing really helps well-being. The songs are uplifting and meaningful (and sometimes they are just a bit of fun!) and they are chosen to help people feel better. Everyone there has a story or a reason to be there. We don’t discuss those stories unless people want to – but it means there is a shared understanding and a shared love in the group. Everyone is special, and you can’t go away without feeling a little bit happier. It is the highlight of my month.

What would you say to those who are considering getting in touch with you but are nervous or apprehensive?

If you have any questions at all, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. If you would like any more information about ABC Singing Club, please contact Allie at aspencer@boh.org.uk.

Do you have testimonials from people that have used your services?

Testimonials from our group members:

“The group is uplifting and encouraging.”

“The group has exceeded my expectations, and I look forward to it.”

“I come along for the companionship of people in a similar situation to me and to take part in the joy of singing.”

Who works for you?

ABC Singing Club is led by our Head of Creative Learning & Engagement, Allie Spencer. Allie is joined by a pianist accompanist, and both lead the session in songs, chats and any updates members may have to share.

What are the values of your organisation?

Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre is a charity dedicated to making an impact in our local community, creating opportunities to get involved in many ways. Whether

this is with our outreach opportunities, like ABC Singing Club, or in our community productions as well as volunteering with us as part of our Front of House team, we would be delighted to welcome you into the community of Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre.

And finally, can you describe your organisation in 3 words?

Community. Welcoming. Inspiring.

If you’d like to find out more about this wonderful group, please visit: www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk/abc-singing-club. If you’d like to find a singing group or support group in your area, please search on Cancer Care Map’s homepage using your postcode.