La Traviata opera treat
Internationally acclaimed opera singer Anna Pierard and her friend Sarah Walmsley formed Festival Opera five years ago with the intention of bringing world-class opera singers to Hawke’s Bay to sing along and mentor the community’s young singers. This week Festival Opera premiers its sixth production, at the Napier Municipal Theatre. We asked Anna about her vision for Festival Opera, and what treats are in store for those who go to
We formed both in 2013. We were itching to use our skills and experience, and probably there was a desire there too, to not feel like we’d had to turn our back on all the things that excited us in the move back to Hawke’s Bay — I was not tired of London at all, but starting a family is a gear change. Aside from that need, we also knew that creating opera could give local kids access to the sort of transformation Sarah and I had both experienced when we were accepted into national choirs as teenagers. We suddenly met people who loved singing as much as we did. We wanted to bring this feeling to kids in Hawke’s Bay — opera was the perfect way, and has proven to be so.
Obviously, we’d like to teach the world to sing in perfect harmony — haha!
Really, we’d love to drive the perception shift that music is actually so much a part of what makes our lives meaningful. How many locals went along to the Phil Collins concert not just because he’s a great song writer, but because that’s what they were listening to as they grew up.
The soundtrack to our lives. The arts, more broadly, should hold pride of place in the heart of every community. They should be better funded, as a critical area for helping young people express what words can’t, use their own voice when no-one else’s will be more meaningful or ‘right’ than their own. Music in mainstream primary education — we’re working on it and we have some committed partners, so we’re feeling positive.
Oh it’s a classic — tenor and soprano want to be together but the baritone gets in the way!
It’s absolutely true, of course, but there’s plenty else going on. Perhaps it’s the most beautiful, noble journey of a woman who must face the worst fate and essentially, travel that journey on her own. You’ll have to come along to learn more.
Gorgeousness by the crate-load! There’s not a piece of scaffolding in sight, dare I say. We took special care to deliver the sort of production our audience can just bathe in, it’s so beautiful — not to mention stunning singing, and very moving acting from our leads. Our best yet, we’re certain. Steady hands like those of John Wilkie, a seasoned opera director, Josa again designing the gorgeous set, working with Craig Hay, who has dressed the set beautifully with Penny Manahi assisting — we have quite the team this year, and their efforts and talent are so evident in this beautiful production.
No question — if you need more beauty in your life, and let’s face it, who doesn’t? Then this opera is for you!