Coventry College students lifting spirits with festive performance for local hospital

A group of @CoventryCollege students have recorded themselves singing a carol to lift the spirits of frontline health workers and patients across the city and beyond during Christmas.

Musical Theatre students from the city’s leading further education provider have performed their own version of O Holy Night, which is set to be shown in the main entrance foyer of University Hospital Coventry and online during the first two weeks of December.

The students’ performance will form part of the University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire Charity’s Virtual Christmas Music Festival.

Rebecca Gent, Musical Theatre Lecturer at Coventry College, explained how the opportunity came about.

She said: “I saw a Facebook post from the University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire Charity appealing for groups to record carols, and thought this would be a brilliant opportunity for the students.

“Due to Coronavirus this was one of their first performances together since last Christmas, so they were really eager to play their part in this one – so much so that it was planned, rehearsed and recorded within two lessons!

“We all really hope it will help to put a smile on some people’s faces during what has been a difficult year for everyone.”

Jo O’Sullivan, Director of UHCW Charity, added:

“We are very grateful to Coventry College for supporting our Virtual Christmas Music Festival. 

“This year has been difficult for everyone and we have had to change our usual Christmas events to ensure that we keep everyone safe. 

“Our Christmas Cheer campaign aims to bring some festive joy to our NHS staff, our patients and their families. A big thank you and round of virtual applause to all our performers, they are amazing!”

To watch Coventry College students’ performance of O Holy Night, click here.