An exhibition that follows participants in homeless charity Streetwise Opera workshops in Manchester on an inspirational journey, as they explore and celebrate the lives of seven extraordinary artists who transformed adversity into creative genius.

Curated by Michaela Ross, an artist and academic with a particular interest in the public's engagement with academic research. Her practice-led research explores the relationship between artists and institutions and the social value of participatory practices in museums and galleries.

Born on a slave ship in the Atlantic, Ignatius Sancho (1729 - 1780) would go on to become a renowned abolitionist, writer and composer, gaining the respect of London intellectuals, and the first Black man to vote in Britain.

Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-George (1745–1799) was a pioneering French composer of African descent, celebrated violinist, and conductor. Born in Guadeloupe, he overcame racial barriers to achieve recognition in fencing, dance, and classical music.

George Augustus Polgreen Bridgetower (1778–1860) was a virtuoso British violinist of African descent, renowned for his compelling performances across Europe. He significantly enriched London's musical scene and left a lasting impact on classical music.

Born in London to a mixed ethnicity family, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875–1912) was a composer and conductor. He engaged with African musical traditions and achieved international recognition, influencing both British and American music scenes.

Florence Beatrice Price (1887–1953) was the first recognised African-American woman symphonic composer, with over 300 works including symphonies and concertos. Her pioneering compositions, blending classical forms with cultural melodies, were performed by major orchestras, marking significant milestones in music history.

Margaret Bonds (1913–1972) was an acclaimed American composer, pianist, and teacher. Notable as one of the first recognised Black composers in the United States, she is best known for her arrangements of spirituals and collaborations with Langston Hughes.

London-born Dr Shirley J. Thompson OBE (1958) is a renowned composer, artistic director, conductor, academic, violinist and film maker. Her work, merging classical traditions with diverse cultural elements, has been acclaimed globally.