Hospice gets a night at the opera

Dec 11 2008 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

A TALENTED young Lanarkshire opera singer will perform in Motherwell on Tuesday to raise cash for St Andrew’s Hospice.

Monica McGhee, from Parkside Gardens in Motherwell, will perform along with fellow students from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama at Motherwell Cathedral.

The 20-year-old is currently studying opera singing and since she started her course in 2006 has organised a concert each year in her home town.

The former Our Lady’s High School pupil said: “I am trying to make this concert the most successful yet.

“I decided the first year I was at the Academy to organise a concert in the Motherwell Cathedral as it is my home church and it is such a beautiful place to sing.

“All of the other students are mainly from England or America, so as the local lass, I thought it would not only be a great opportunity for us to perform, but also a wonderful night of music for people to enjoy and raise money at the same time.”

Over the last two years Monica has raised cash for North Lanarkshire’s Women’s Aid and St Andrew’s Hospice.

Monica added: “In total the concerts have generated about £1000, which is fantastic.”

The event starts at 7.30pm and tickets can be reserved from Monica on 07753279141, or visitors can pay on the evening.

Tickets are priced £5 and £3 for concessions (senior citizens and students).