Joy in Opera Lane - 200 take part in flash mob for Cork Simon

Submitted by Sophie on Mon, 19/12/2011 - 12:34
Date: 
19 December / 2011

An impromptu, open-air performance of Joy to the World by over 200 carol singers from across the county stopped shoppers in their tracks on Opera Lane yesterday.

Music groups ‘Cantabile Vocal Ensemble’ and ‘Cantairí Mhuscraí, Ballincollig’ got the action going singing carols on the busy shopping street while scores of individuals, positioned up and down Opera Lane, to the surprise of passers-by joined the two music groups for their final carol, filling the thronged shopping street with a powerful, mass rendition of Joy to the World.

The Christmas Carol Fash Mob, organised by Musical Director, Mary O’Brien represented the final event this year to mark Cork Simon’s 40th Anniversary.

Speaking about the event, Mary O’Brien said “Today was a very special day for me having the unique opportunity to be part of this event. People have been 100% willing to give of their free time today and indeed to practice over the last number of weeks. This is what Christmas is all about for me. It’s the singing and the community spirit that makes it such a special time.”

Mary O’Brien drew her inspiration for yesterday’s event from her involvement with The Big Sing, a large flash mob which took place in Dundrum Shopping Centre during RTE Music Week in October. She said “We had so much fun at The Big Sing that we decided we’d do something similar but unique in Cork and after much talking we came up with this idea. We sang for Cork Simon at their Remembrance Service last Christmas and we were delighted to do something for the charity again this year. Each year we looked for a different project so as to achieve new goals each time”.

Paying thanks to all the volunteered who contributed their time and talent to the Joy to the World Flash Mob, Cork Simon CEO Dermot Kavangh, said, “By coming together and showing their solidarity and support for people who are less fortunate, these singers are showing they believe in people and are helping to keep hope alive for the most marginalised and isolated people in society.”