We use the profound power of opera to transform the lives of people currently experiencing or recovering from homelessness. Working with world-leading artists, we inspire participants to develop as creatives and perform on prestigious stages, while shifting how society views homelessness.
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Homelessness is soaring across England and we know that homelessness is closely linked to isolation and mental health challenges. Over 80% of people sleeping rough in the UK report mental health concerns (Crisis, 2024), and of the 1,611 reported deaths of people experiencing homelessness in 2024, 55% were classed as ‘deaths of despair’ and linked to suicide or drugs (Museum of Homelessness, Oct 2025). “If it weren’t for Streetwise, I wouldn’t be here.” - Brian, Streetwise Opera performer
Streetwise Opera's year-round performing arts programme inspires and empowers people with experience of homelessness to develop as creatives, leading to improved mental health and a greater quality of life. Our workshops in leading arts venues and homelessness centres create a safe space for individuals to be part of a community and to co-create with world-leading artists new opera productions to perform to the public, showcasing their skills and perspectives, which are too often unheard.
