Charlotte Church, the former child prodigy and world-class soprano, is kicking up a storm on the UK music scene. She is an unapologetic black female activist – a leader, a bridge-builder, a truth-teller and transformative justice warrior. Since her 20s, Church has been vocal about numerous societal issues, using her platform to champion causes close to her heart. Her story starts as a child performer. Today, she is a tireless activist and healer, serving as an example of the rare resilience and long-lasting spirit that remains.
Church first wowed the world at only 11 years of age. In 1997, she delivered a truly formidable telephonic version of “Pie Jesu” on ITV’s “This Morning”. Her award-winning performance launched her to the top of the music industry’s elite. Her career from here became one of both celebrated success and much earned controversy. Over the years, she has released classical music albums and is currently working on a new album, expected to debut in 2026.
Despite her great success in her career, Church’s personal life has been troubled with obstacles. Stephen soon moved away to be with his new partner, causing Elizabeth to become estranged from him until his death by coronavirus in 2021. Her childhood would be heavily influenced by her parents’ break-up when she was only two years old. Her mother, who is now on disability for bipolar disorder, and her stepfather, James, who is fighting AL amyloidosis, a rare disease that attacks internal organs.
As a teenager, Church was a constant target of tabloid press, who tracked her every movement and subjected her to intense, excessive scrutiny. Reflecting on this period of her life, Church remarked on her openness and vulnerability:
“I didn’t have a fucking clue, but also about myself. I’ve always been incredibly open, porous as a cloud. Which is sort of insane, considering how much shit I’ve had thrown at me.”
Church’s personal relationships have similarly drawn attention. She has a daughter and son with her former partner, rugby star Gavin Henson, who she separated from in 2010. She has been married to musician Jonathan Powell for 15 years, maintaining a private yet supportive partnership away from the limelight.
Her activism is as colorful as it is passionate. A long-time feminist and proud little red schoolhouse leftist, Church has been on the front lines of anti-austerity, pro-climate and pro-Palestine movements. In recent years, she has become more forthright in her political stance, urging communities to rally together:
“The only way we’ll sort out the right fucking mess the world is in is to come back together, in community.”
We invite you to participate in this healing retreat that will support your reconnection with nature and the rediscovery of your spirit. The retreat offers workshops and retreats emphasizing esoteric practices over prescriptive programs:
“It’s all bollocks,” she gestures out the window. “All this is much more esoteric. We’re not trying to get people to subscribe to a programme.”
Personally, Church admits that her approach to life has changed as she’s gotten older. She has become more discerning about how she spends her time and energy but remains committed to enjoying life:
“I have, naturally with age, stopped going out drinking so much. But I still dance my tits off, regular, do not worry.”
She describes herself as guided by intuition rather than expertise:
“I’m not an expert, I’m just following my nose and intuition.”
Her ability to maintain faith in humanity despite facing adversities stands as a testament to her character.
“I’d always been very free with my trust and care,” she says. “I’m the opposite of misanthropic. I’ve a deep love for people, even when they’ve been awful.”