Fourteen talented young singers from Armidale, Inverell and the surrounding districts are currently in rehearsals to be the first chorus group to perform at Inverell’s Opera in the Paddock on Saturday, March 24.
The all female Mimosa Chorus, sponsored by Armidale and Glen Innes based accountancy firm Roberts and Morrow, will be singing the popular Nun’s Chorus, Mendelssohn’s Ye Spotted Snakes and the dramatic entrance to Madama Butterfly.
“One of the strong motivations to continue Opera in the Paddock each year, apart from bringing fine singers and musicians to the country, is to give local artists the opportunity to perform in a professional context,” artistic director Peta Blyth said.
“After ten years it is wonderful to have this addition to the opera and I am sure the audience will appreciate it.
“Both Inge Southcott and I are coaching the chorus members in two locations and we are delighted with their enthusiasm and talent.
“We are very grateful for Roberts and Morrow’s support for these young singers. It will help cover the additional costs and travel incurred.”
Ms Blyth said the regional component of Opera in the Paddock has been strengthened by the Mimosa Orchestra which includes musicians from across the region who have been performing for the last six years. Bingara based Wombat Sound and professional lighting engineer Roy Jeffrey who has returned to the Paddock for the last seven years make up the highly skilled technical side.
Some new faces to appear at this year’s concert are Opera Australia conductor and repetiteur Phoebe Briggs, soprano Jacqueline Mabardi, baritone Barry Ryan, mezzo soprano Elizabeth Lewis and tenor James Egglestone. They will join sopranos Peta Blyth and mezzo Elizabeth Campbell on the Mimosa stage for a repertoire that excerpts from Puccini’s Madama Butterfly and Tosca, Verdi’s Il Trovatore and Aida and selections from well known operetta and musicals .
Opera North West Ltd acknowledges the support of Arts NSW, Destination NSW, Opera Australia, Inverell Shire Council, NAB, Regional ABC, Essential Energy, Malachite Resources, German Consul and Roberts and Morrow. Bookings online www.operainthepaddock.com.au /ph 1800 240 301.
