No-one can fail to have been shocked by the images of the devastation that was left by a series of storms this winter. Weeks on, and as the rains ease, there are still families without a roof over their head, farmers without livestock, businesses without premises, and plenty still needing help.
But a non-profit organisation from Caldas da Rainha that has been assisting on the frontline will have its efforts boosted by a benefit concert in March being headlined by Portugal’s number one Beatles tribute act.
Musicians, volunteers, charities and businesses from across the local area will all have a part to play as internationally acclaimed group The Peakles take top billing at “Comunidades Unidas: TempestAID” on Sunday, March 22, at Pavilhão ARCACEN Capeleira, near Óbidos.
The Caldas based not-for-profit association Movimento Viver o Concelho (MVC) will distribute the funds raised by the event, which is being co-partnered by the Associação Recreativa e Cultural Amigos de Capeleira e Navalha (ARCACEN).
Concert co-ordinator Steve Poole explains: “Having seen the challenges faced by local organisations to get practical support mobilised in the worst affected towns and villages in the region, we saw an opportunity to help through one musical event that could make a real difference.
“The partnership between ARCACEN and MVC means that we have great facilities to hold an event to maximise raising funds that can be allocated quickly and transparently to where they continue to be needed the most.”
MVC President Teresa Serrenho added: “These storms were democratic. They didn’t care for the size of the house or someone’s ability to pay for repairs. They ripped through people’s lives, landscapes and businesses, leaving many of them un-equipped and unable to move forward.
“In recent weeks, we’ve been able to help people in practical ways, for example, with construction contacts, materials and labour. These people are going to need our support for many months to come, and we are helping them to rebuild hope.”
Communities Unite originated as a series of concerts in Óbidos in 2023 aimed at bringing the Portuguese and immigrant populations together through music. Co-founder and local musician Richard Allen has been reaching out to bands to perform at the gig in Capeleira and is thrilled that The Peakles are taking part: “The Peakles are the top Beatles tribute act in the country, they’ve toured internationally and now they’re returning to Óbidos to headline a stage packed with other local talent like Voltar-N, The Four Horsemen and Jam Shack. It promises to not only be a sell-out event, but also an incredible day of music, community and generosity.”
“Comunidades Unidas: TempestAID” takes place on Sunday, March 22, at the Associação Recreativa e Cultural Amigos da Capeleira e Navalha, near Óbidos. Admission is €5 on the day. For more information search social media for ‘Comunidades Unidas: TempestAID’.
