The stunning, 19th century Union Chapel in Islington was a perfect backdrop for War Child to host Norwegian alt-pop artist AURORA on Wednesday. With its soaring arches and candlelit warmth, it was the ideal setting for an evening that mixed music with meaningful purpose.
AURORA has carved out a unique space in modern music. Her ethereal soundscapes and deeply emotional storytelling have made her one of Scandinavia's most unique voices, bridging the personal with the universal in ways that feel genuinely compassionate. It's exactly this that makes her such a natural fit for War Child's mission. With winter bringing bitter cold to children in conflict zones already dealing with unimaginable trauma, her platform helps focus attention where it's desperately needed.
The show unfolded in two acts. Dusk explored activism and what happens when people come together, whilst Dawn lifted everyone through hope and renewal, closing the night on a genuinely uplifting note. Between acts, the audience got a taste of cherished Norwegian festive traditions, too, which added some genuine cultural warmth to an already emotional evening.
And the surprises kept coming, too. Paris Paloma, Jacob Alon, and dodie all joined AURORA on stage, each bringing their own magic to the cause. It's this collaborative backdrop to who AURORA is as a musician that emphasises just how much she has yet to give.
Every penny raised from the evening went towards War Child's work in 14 countries, providing safe spaces, mental health support, and emergency help to children whose lives have been torn apart.
