New Opera Focuses on Men Helping Each Other

Loneliness is a scourge of modern society and it’s examined in a new opera, Shoulder to Shoulder, from Swansea City Opera. It will be performed at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, on Sunday 30 October as part of its Wales tour.

Through outreach work in 2020-2021, Swansea City Opera developed a partnership with Men’s Sheds Cymru, which is part of the international movement founded in Australia which improves men’s wellbeing. Men’s Sheds Cymru supports men experiencing, and at risk of, loneliness and social isolation, helping individuals through social activities.

The Men’s Sheds movement is based on the understanding that men are more likely to help themselves and attend something they have set up or have some control over. Hence Shoulder to Shoulder – recognising that attending a meeting, engaging in activities or shared tasks, and getting organised over a cup of tea can have a positive impact on loneliness, isolation and mental wellbeing as people take back control and enjoy time spent together.

The music for Shoulder to Shoulder was composed by Lenny Sayers with words and songs written by Brendan Wheatley and all are based on shedders’ stories, ranging from the hilarious to moving and thought-provoking tales.

Shoulder to Shoulder’s ensemble for the Torch Theatre performance features members of Haverfordwest Operatic Society as well as professional singers and musicians, mainly from Wales.

The role of Gwen will be played by talented singer Rebecca Goulden. From her Pembrokeshire roots, Rebecca has gone on to sing at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Glyndebourne and Opera Köln (Cologne).

Brendan Wheatley says: “The stories of the shedders are truly inspiring. There are stories of men overcoming tremendous adversity, ranging from relationship breakdown and bereavement, from ill health to redundancy by being part of a Men’s Shed.

“Audiences will find Shoulder to Shoulder moving, thought-provoking, uplifting, and funny. We believe opera should  be relevant and accessible. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced opera-goer or an opera novice.”

Pembrokeshire currently has Men’s Sheds in
 Milford Haven
 Neyland
 Pembroke Dock
 Solva

More information about the Pembrokeshire Men’s Sheds groups can be found at www.mensshedscymru.co.uk/find-a-shed/#

Shoulder to Shoulder is at the Torch Theatre on 30 October at 7.30pm.

Tickets £14 / £12.50 concessions. To book, call 01646 695267 or email boxoffice@torchtheatre.co.uk.