Celebrating 140 years of fun with big City Hall bash

Julie Smethurst is the former chair or Sheffield Philharmonic Chorus, which is also marking an important occasion this year as it turns 80, and they decided to pair up for a memorable joint birthday bash to celebrate 140 years of fun.

Julie is well known in the city, as a Trustee Director of Sheffield Royal Society for the Blind and a governor of New College Worcester, as well as for her work with the chorus. She said: “For my 50th birthday I organised a rock gig, so as a small concession to my age, I thought a more reflective, sit down affair was in order.

“I’d always dreamed of being able to sponsor a classical concert to the extent of being able to say what I wanted on the programme so this is a treat.”

The concert is part of a recent initiative by Sheffield Philharmonic Chorus to create Fantasy Concerts. Recognising that fantasy football league is played up and down the land and has become part of popular culture, the chorus created something similar for music lovers, but with a fabulous twist – it doesn’t stay a fantasy. The format is simple - pick the music, pick some players, find a venue, and make it happen.

Julie added: “Vaughan Williams became my favourite English composer in my teens, so his wonderful and varied music makes up the whole programme for the concert on Saturday June 4. It’s going to be a memorable night.”

Visit www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk for details.