Opera in Downend
What is it: Each session is a presentation of an opera, opera history or perhaps the works of a composer, with short musical illustrations and discussion on the work(s).
When is it: Generally fortnightly on Wednesdays 10 am coffee (and very nice biscuits) for prompt 10.30 start and we finish by noon.
Where is it: Castle Suite, Badminton Gardens, Beaufort Rd, Downend BS16 6UE
The operas customarily chosen are often unfashionable or ones which for reasons of practicality such as requiring six tenors, having parts too risky to perform live or impractical changes of scenery, are not often found in the repertoire of opera companies in the UK - but then we don't have to look at the box office take. However, the operas are always interesting and with attractive music and most of us learn something each time. The important thing is that we enjoy what we do.
For further information or to contact the Group Leader, just click on 'send a message' above, see the latest Annual Bulletin or News Sheet, or send an email to the Groups Co-ordinator via the Contacts page.
Just turn up. Easy access. Parking nearby. 2 mins to nearest bus stop.
Updated 28/6/17 KP
| Dates for your Diary | |
|---|---|
| Wed Apr 25th | Gioachino ROSSINI - ERMIONE - 'Treasured' by the composer. "... a work of great power and intensity, undeserving of neglect." |
| Wed May 9th | Gaetano DONIZETTI - ANNA BOLENA - Ann Boleyn - A hit from the start and the first of a string of superb romantic tragedies. |
| Wed May 30th | Bedrich SMETANA - THE BARTERED BRIDE (Prodanà Nevêsta) A popular folk opera 'full of spontaneous charm' |
| Wed Jun 13th | Vincenzo BELLINI - LA SONNAMBULA - The Sleepwalker - One of his earlier operas, though one of his finest and melodically prodigious. Kobbé describes it as "A good evening's entertainment", though the story might raise the oddly sceptical eyebrow. |
| Wed Jun 27th | Gioachino ROSSINI - ELISABETTA REGINA D'INGHILTERRA - Elizabeth, Queen of England - the 23 year old composer at the start of his work in Naples with this influential and fashionable work. |
| Wed Jul 11th | Giuseppe VERDI - LES VEPRES SICILIENNES - The Sicilian Vespers - Immediately following Rigoletto, Traviata and Trovatore this blockbuster of a grand opera was commissioned by the Paris Opéra complete with half an hour of ballet. |