Paisley’s take on famous opera set for stage debut
Opera company has turned tale into Buddie masterpiece
Paisley’s opera company is set to take to the stage to unveil a unique new production.
Its talented members will perform a specially commissioned translation of noted Italian opera great Pietro Mascagni’s muchloved masterpiece ‘Cavalleria Rusticana’ - Rustic Chivalry.
‘A Paisley Kiss’ will run from April 29 to May 2 at the town’s new covered outdoor venue in Central Road.
Professional soloists and Amicus orchestra will join Paisley Opera’s community chorus -which features a special Paisley translation.
The opera in one act traditionally tells the story of Turiddu, who returns home from an extended military campaign to learn that his fiancé, Lola, has married Alfio, a wealthy wine carter.
He retaliates by romancing a young beauty named Santuzza to provoke Lola’s fury.
Alistair Digges will conduct a cast which includes soprano Shuna Scott-Sendal (Catriona), mezzo-soprano Laura Margaret Smith (Lola), mezzo-soprano Heather Ireson (Lucy), tenor Thomas Kinch (Elijah) and baritone Aaron McAuley (Alfio), for the four date ‘A Paisley Kiss’ spectacular.
Directed by Fiona Williams, the production brings Mascani’s world-renowned opera to the heart of the community and a unique Paisley setting, infused with the city’s history, culture, landmarks and language.
Paisley Opera’s specially commissioned translation by Lindsay Bramley features local dialect and references.
The 40-voice Paisley Opera chorus consists of residents who have only ever sung in the shower, alongside seasoned music lovers and singers range from age 16 to the over- sixties.
Simon Hannigan, founder of Paisley Opera, said: “Postponed since June 2020, we are incredibly excited about at last presenting ‘A Paisley Kiss’.
“Mascagni’s masterpiece about love and betrayal, all set around the town square, works so well in Lindsay Bramley’s new translation.
“The translation gives a unique twist on the original story in less time than a football match, resulting in exciting, accessible opera for all.
“While we may not quite have Sicilian weather, Paisley has a great sense of community which lends itself perfectly to the drama of this piece.”
It is the company’s inaugural performance with the Amicus Orchestra, bolstered by professional singers led by BBC Radio 2 Kiri Prize winner Shuna Scott-Kendall, while Fiona Williams returns to work her directorial magic with the cast and chorus.
Fiona added: “It is brilliant to be back together again, creating a new show - it feels joyous.
“We are very excited to be able to perform at the heart of Paisley in a new outdoor, covered space, and to build relationships with other local organisations such as PACE theatre group and Amicus orchestra.”
For tickets, visit www.oneren. org/whats-on/ or buy them from Bianco e Nero Coffee Shop27, in Gauze Street, or White Cart Company, in the High Street.