Streetwise Opera is launching Stand with Streetwise, an emergency appeal to raise £120,000 to ensure its survival. The organisation is calling on supporters to help continue its work using opera and creativity to empower people experiencing homelessness. With homelessness on the rise and funding for small charities under unprecedented pressure, this is the most critical appeal in the charity’s 22-year history.

As part of the appeal, Streetwise Opera is also announcing the support of new patrons, including Dame Sarah Connolly DBE, mezzo-soprano Jennifer Johnston, theatre, television and film star Paterson Joseph, and actor Simon Callow, who join soprano Elizabeth Watts, who has been a patron for over a decade. These artists, spanning the worlds of opera and stage, are joining forces to champion the company’s work, amplifying the call for urgent support during this campaign.

Rough sleeping in London has risen by 18% since the summer of 2023 according to BBC figures, with record numbers of households living in temporary accommodation in England. Many charities within the homelessness sector provide essentials like shelter and advice, Streetwise Opera focus on rebuilding confidence, purpose and hope. This emergency appeal will help Streetwise Opera continue offering opportunities for people experiencing homelessness, including award-winning productions co-created with artists, weekly singing and creative sessions, skills development and access to cultural organisations in London, Manchester and Nottingham. 

Dame Sarah Connolly DBE said: ‘I’m immensely honoured to be a patron of Streetwise Opera. Their mission is one of passion for opera and deep care in the community. Homelessness could happen to almost anyone and I’m mindful that we are ever more vulnerable as the NHS is severely stretched and philanthropy is hard to reach.’

Find out more about Streetwise Opera at streetwiseopera.org.