In the desert, on the harbour, in the alps, by the ocean, underground, 30,000 feet in the air… these are not locations preferred by Dr Zeuss, but existing sites where it is possible to enjoy the ageless art form of opera.
Currently, opera is where the action is. What may once have seemed ridiculously old-fashioned to some, has become the music of the moment.
Around the world, the boundaries once associated with this time-honoured tradition have been well and truly broken.
The country’s leading opera company, Opera Australia is selling record numbers of tickets. Staging spectacular opera performances on Sydney Harbour has resulted in Opera Australia attracting more paying customers than at any time in its history. It appears that the fat lady is back with a vengeance.
Renowned for presenting Opera in the Paddock at Delungra near Inverell for over a decade, regionally based company Opera North West has provided the region with ground-breaking opportunities to experience world-class performances in the bush.
Now the company is delighted to announce an exciting new venture, reaffirming yet again that it is a truly innovative company.
Having taken a break from presenting Opera in the Paddock for the past two years, Artistic Director Peta Blyth explains that “the company has established a new creative ambition to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.”
One such example is the presentation of a concert in Walcha in the grounds of the magnificent historic homestead “Langford” on the 15th November.
The exceptional new setting at one of the most striking historical homes in NSW, will provide the same world-class performance audiences have come to expect, with the same relaxed atmosphere they have grown to love.
Opera at Langford will be the first live performance event of its kind ever held at the magnificent venue.
The choice of location emphasizes Opera North West’s understanding that it is fundamental to be able to provide new experiences to our audiences without compromising the quality and standard of the performances.
"Langford offers a superb backdrop for such an event. It is an exciting venture and we are most grateful for the generous support of the Walcha Council in presenting to a new regional audience," said Mrs Blyth.
The cast will be led by tenor Bradley Daley who comes directly from performances in the title role of Otello with State Opera of South Australia."
Opera North West also acknowledges the support of Flagship Funding through Destination NSW, Arts New South Wales and media partner New England Country Living.
Gates at Langford will open at 3pm with the concert commencing at 5pm. Patrons are asked to bring along seating and food, while a licenced bar will be operating. Following the concert a dinner will be held in the dining hall of Langford, for which bookings are essential. Tickets: Adults $55, Child & Student $30 with family $140 (2 adults and 2 children).
Available online www.operainthepaddock.com.au. or phone (02) 6724 8561 for a coach from Bingara
