If you were anywhere near The Factory Space on Saturday night, you probably heard the music, felt the buzz, and wished you had a ticket… but if you didn’t grab one early, you were out of luck. Our Summer Party fundraiser for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice completely sold out, with more than 115 people packed in, standing room only, and an atmosphere you could bottle.

From the very first moment, you knew it was going to be something special. Guests were greeted with bright Hawaiian leis and glowing wristbands, setting the tone for a night of summer fun. Tables twinkled with bubbles, and our photo-ready selfie station was primed for those “you had to be there” moments. Everyone got a free raffle ticket on arrival, and with a line-up of incredible prizes donated by generous local businesses, there was a real buzz about what might be won.

In the middle of all the colour and music stood the heart of the night: Julia’s House. Their stand shared the vital work they do for children with life-limiting conditions and their families. Their CEO, Martin Edwards, delivered a speech that stopped the room; heartfelt, emotional, and a powerful reminder of why we were all there. Standing alongside him was Deputy Mayor George Farquhar, another incredible supporter who, like Martin, was also at our very first fundraiser back in March. Their ongoing encouragement means the world to us.

A line-up of unforgettable performances

The evening began with Mathilda Mae, who opened the night with four breathtaking summer themed numbers that had the crowd spellbound.

Then came our summer-themed support acts from a generous pool of local talent… each one bringing their own magic:

• Gary Williams with a stunningly tender Fields of Gold

• Danielle Morris lighting up the room with Walking on Sunshine

• Amy Charlotte Leyland delivering a goosebump-inducing Feeling Good

• Row Pappin charming everyone with In Summer from Frozen

By the time Cadence took the stage, the room was ready to party. Alongside some of our classic favourites, we unveiled a whole new repertoire that had the crowd singing, clapping, and dancing along. New additions included Symphony by Clean Bandit, Espresso by Sabrina Carpenter, Hold My Hand by Jess Glynne, Pink Pony Club by Chappell Roan, and Focus is Power by Self Esteem. The energy in the room was electric – and it was all fuelled by the joy of performing for such a warm, generous audience.

A special welcome to Lisa Fuller

This event also marked the debut of our newest member, Lisa Fuller – and what a debut it was. Lisa first heard about Cadence when our charity single Hallelujah played on Radio Wimborne, and she instantly knew she wanted to join. Against all odds (including a broken foot!), she learned almost our entire setlist – choreography included – in just a few short weeks. Watching her absolutely smash her first performance with us was a proud moment for the whole group. Lisa, we’re so glad you’re part of the Cadence family!

Our thanks

We owe huge gratitude to The Factory Space for sponsoring this event and helping make it such a success. And an equally big thank you to Nigel Martin for capturing the night in photographs – you can see his workhere, the local businesses who donated raffle prizes, your generosity is deeply appreciated.

Most of all, thank you to every single person who came along, sang with us, danced with us, and helped raise funds for Julia’s House. You turned a summer night into something truly unforgettable.

What's next?

Our next big fundraiser is already in the diary – 20th December – and this time, we’re going full Christmas. Expect festive magic, harmonies to warm your heart, and a whole lot of holiday cheer. Save the date now!

And if you can’t wait until then, come and see us at the Christchurch Carnival on Sunday 17th August at 12.30pm on the main stage. We’ll be ready – will you?