It’s been an epic year for Oxford Opera. Not only were they nominated for a BBC ‘Make A Difference’ community award for their work in Oxfordshire schools, but staged a memorable performance of The Magic Flute at Oxford Playhouse back in April. read about it here
But to ensure this work can carry on, Oxford Opera is hosting Celebrate Opera at Oxford Playhouse on October 23, an exciting romp through the world’s favourite opera classics.
“we need to be supported as well as celebrated if we are to continue. That’s the bottom line”
Oxford Opera founder Stuart Pendred says: “it’s like the Top of the Pops of opera because the point of Oxford Opera is to make opera accessible to everyone and this is the perfect opportunity to give it a go, especially as it’s being performed by some really big names and upcoming stars.”
this is essentially a 90 minute journey through opera’s banging tunes from Tosca and Mozart to Puccini and Bizet
“”So our mantra at Oxford Opera has always been ‘world class opera for everyone’.” because opera was invented for the masses, for the people, and we want to bring that back.”
“So this is essentially a 90 minute journey through opera’s banging tunes from Tosca and Mozart to Puccini and Bizet alongside some lesser known works and female composers. There’s even an opera called The Enchanted Pig in the programme.”
The Oxford Opera Orchestra and Youth Choir will also be performing because Celebrate Opera is crucial to the future of the local company.
“Post Covid we are still in a fragile position. It’s been a torrid time but we have been there working with schools and children during Covid,” Stuart said.
“come along, buy a ticket, bring the kids and watch opera’s top of the pops”
“But now we need to be supported as well as celebrated if we are to continue. That’s the bottom line. It’s still an ongoing struggle and we need help to make it work.
“So come along, buy a ticket, bring the kids and watch opera’s ‘pick-and-mix’ and has a bit of everything – humour, pathos, sex, anguish, betrayal, but that’s what opera is – the human condition set to music.”
To buy a ticket for Celebrate Opera on Sunday October 23 at 3pm or 7pm, go to: https://www.oxfordplayhouse.com/events/celebrate-opera
To find out more, make a donation or sponsor a child go to https://oxfordopera.uk
