Singer

Opera Holland Park is thrilled to present a new production of Gioachino Rossini's classic bel canto comedy, "The Barber of Seville," in June 2024. This sparkling comedy of intrigue, directed by Cecilia Stinton and conducted by Charlotte Corderoy, promises to be a highlight of the 2024 season, featuring a tale told with style and panache. The story follows the clever Figaro, the barber of Seville, as he becomes a puppet-master to ensure the young Count Almaviva wins the hand of Rosina, thwarting her wedding to the elderly Doctor Bartolo. The opera is renowned for its inventive arias and ensembles, offering a prequel to Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro."

Paul Grant stars in the title role, with Elgan Llŷr Thomas as Almaviva and Heather Lowe as Rosina. The cast also includes Stephen Gadd as the conniving Doctor Bartolo and operatic superstar Janis Kelly making her company debut as Bartolo’s dust-allergic housekeeper, Berta. The production features the City of London Sinfonia and the Opera Holland Park Chorus, sung in Italian with English surtitles.

Performances are scheduled for multiple dates in June, starting from the 4th, with a special Young Artist’s performance on the 14th and a Discovery Matinee on the 16th, designed to welcome newcomers to opera in a relaxed environment. Ticket prices vary by seating area, with member discounts available, and INSPIRE tickets priced at £24, subject to availability.

This event is a must-see for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering a perfect blend of high art, comedy, and captivating music in the picturesque setting of Opera Holland Park.

The Barber of Seville

Opera Holland Park

Immerse yourself in the vibrant and comedic world of Rossini's masterpiece, "The Barber of Seville," at this year's Waterperry Opera Festival. Set against the stunning backdrop of Waterperry House, this headline opera promises an unforgettable experience filled with wit, charm, and Rossini's famous melodies. Join us for a series of performances on the 10th, 11th, 14th, 15th, and 17th of August 2024, where the bustling streets of Seville come to life on the Waterperry Main Stage.

The story unfolds with the clever and quick-witted Figaro, the barber extraordinaire, as he devises a plan to help his friend, Count Almaviva, win the heart of the beautiful Rosina. Through a series of hilarious disguises and mischievous schemes, they navigate the challenges posed by Rosina's overbearing guardian, Dr. Bartolo, who has his own matrimonial plans for her. This production, performed in English with a translation by Christopher Cowell, features a talented cast including Brenton Spiteri as Count Almaviva, Esme Bronwen-Smith as Rosina, and Patrick Alexander Keefe as Figaro, under the direction of John Wilkie and the baton of conductor Charlotte Corderoy.

Performances start at 6:30pm, featuring an extended dining interval, and conclude at approximately 9:45pm. General booking opens on April 11, with priority booking available for festival supporters. Don't miss this opportunity to experience Rossini's effervescent arias and lively melodies in a production that celebrates love, laughter, and the triumph of cunning over force.

For tickets and further information, visit the Waterperry Opera Festival's official website. Join us for an evening of unforgettable opera under the stars at the Waterperry Main Stage.

Faryl Smith

Soprano

Events

4 - 21 Jun, 2024

The Barber of Seville · Opera Holland Park

10 - 17 Aug, 2024

The Barber of Seville · Waterperry Opera Festival

Future and recently performed repertoire

Berta in The Barber of Seville by Rossini

Waterperry Opera Festival

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