Norfolk Street Choir to perform first live show since 2019
The Norfolk Street Choir will perform “Summer Sing!” at Norfolk’s Second Presbyterian Church (7305 Hampton Blvd.) on Sunday, Aug. 14, at 4 p.m.
The performance, the group’s first live show since 2019, represents a creative collaboration between the EVMS Arts for Optimal Health Program and the Norfolk Street Choir Project (NSCP) Expressive Arts Collaboration, says Matthew Bernier, MCAT, ATR-BC, Associate Professor in the School of Health Professions.
The choir consists of adults who have experienced homelessness. Included in this performance will be artwork in the form of props, banners and paper puppets created during community art sessions facilitated by Mr. Bernier.
“The NSCP Expressive Arts Collaboration with EVMS Arts for Optimal Health Program offers a community of support which provides opportunities for participants to engage in art making for self-expression and enjoyment, to be witnessed, and to witness others,” says Mr. Bernier. “Artworks often communicate their personal stories and experiences, which when guided by an art therapist and art therapy and counseling students, can be therapeutic. The healing power of arts engagement is the heart of this collaboration.”
The mission of EVMS Arts for Optimal Health is to bring art therapy and arts engagement services to the community for wellness, healing and growth, supported through partnerships for education, research and patient care.