Classics Galore! is back for 2026 – when Devon raises its voice against cancer
Cancer touches almost every family in Devon.
Whether it’s a parent, partner, friend, colleague or neighbour, most of us know someone whose life has been changed by a cancer diagnosis. That’s why hundreds of people will come together this autumn for a special evening that combines music, memories, hope and community spirit.
Exeter’s very own Last Night of the Proms returns to the University of Exeter’s Great Hall on Saturday, November 14, bringing together more than 200 musicians and singers for a spectacular concert in support of FORCE Cancer Charity.
Tickets are priced from £12 to £30 and are on sale at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/classics-galore-exeter or from: www.forcecancercharity.co.uk/classicsgalore
This year’s concert will once again be hosted by BBC Spotlight presenter Victoria Graham, who has become a passionate supporter of FORCE and its work helping local people affected by cancer.
Victoria has a very personal reason for supporting Classics Galore! after losing her father to bowel cancer ten years ago:
“Cancer isn’t just a personal journey – it touches the lives of all those who give their love and support.
Any organisation which can help to raise and keep money for research and support locally is vital.
After running a 10K for FORCE this year I’m really looking forward to something a little more relaxing at Classics Galore! in November.”
For many people, Classics Galore! is far more than a concert.
It is an opportunity to remember loved ones, celebrate those who have overcome cancer, thank the people who supported them and help ensure others continue to receive the care and support they need.
Since it was established in 2007, Classics Galore! has become one of FORCE’s most cherished fundraising events. The last concert raised an incredible £23,500, taking the overall total raised through nine concerts to more than £150,000.
Every pound makes a difference. FORCE receives no Government or NHS funding for its charitable services and relies on fundraising, donations and gifts in wills to support local people living with cancer and their families.
This year’s audience can expect another unforgettable programme featuring a wonderful mix of much-loved classics and familiar favourites. Highlights include themes from Batman, the classic western Big Country, and William Walton’s Majestic Crown Imperial March, alongside a traditional Proms-style finale guaranteed to have the audience singing along.
The specially assembled Classics Galore! Orchestra will once again be joined by Ottery St Mary Choral Society, St David’s Players and the Lympstone Band, with acclaimed soprano Cheryl Enever returning by popular demand.
Leading the performance will be one of the South West’s most respected musical directors, Malcolm Matthews.
The concert is able to go ahead thanks to the support of local companies, including lead sponsor, Knight Frank.
At the heart of the event is a remarkable local legacy.
Classics Galore! was founded by Exeter resident Dick Passmore, who conceived the event while living with cancer, alongside his wife Posy. Dick believed in the power of music to bring people together and to make a lasting difference to others facing the challenges of cancer.
Although Dick sadly died in 2019, his vision lives on. Every concert is a tribute not only to his determination and generosity but also to the thousands of local people who have supported FORCE and those affected by cancer over the years.
This November, as the Great Hall fills with music once more, it will also be filled with stories, memories and the shared belief that nobody should face cancer alone.
