Latest News
|
LA TRAVIATA CAST ANNOUNCEMENT
VIOLETTA VALÉRY – Galatea Kneath FLORA BERVOIX – Lisa Munckton ALFREDO GERMONT – Daniel Verschuer GIORGIO GERMONT – Tristan Entwistle ANNINA – Nadia Cassidy GASTONE, Viscount of Letorières – Seungkwon Jang BARON DOUPHOL – Daniel Rae DOCTOR GRENVIL – Brett Crocker GIUSEPPE, servant to Violetta – Chengxi Feng SERVANT TO FLORA / MESSENGER – Dale Schilling DIRECTOR: BARRY RYAN OAM MUSICAL DIRECTOR: DR. STEVEN STANKE |
SING WITH ROCKDALE OPERA 2025!
ANNOUNCING OUR 2024 SEASON!
|
THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE by W.S.Gilbert & Sir Arthur Sullivan
Prepare to be captivated by an exquisite evening of operatic splendor as Rockdale Opera Company brings to life the timeless classic, "The Pirates of Penzance." Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gilbert and Sullivan, where love, humor, and virtuosic melodies converge in a spectacular production that promises an unparalleled theatrical experience. Revel in the brilliance of Gilbert and Sullivan's iconic score, expertly performed by our talented cast and let the melodies of "The Pirates of Penzance" transport you to a world of lyrical enchantment. Indulge in the uproarious humor that permeates every scene, as love-struck characters navigate the challenges of duty, romance, and swashbuckling shenanigans. A perfect blend of wit and mirth awaits! |
LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR by Gaetano Donizetti
Rockdale Opera Company is excited to present Gaetano Donizetti's dramatic opera, Lucia di Lammermoor. The opera is loosely based on Sir Walter Scott's 1819 historical novel 'The Bride of Lammermoor.' It tells the story of the emotionally fragile Lucia who is caught in a feud between her own family and that of the Ravenswoods, with the inevitable tragic outcome. Lucia's stunning aria in the "mad scene" is justifiably famous, but equally brilliant is the spine-tingling sextet at the end of Act II and Raimondo's heart-rending aria in which he recounts Lucia's descent into madness and the tragedy that has unfolded. Donizetti's score is filled with beautiful lyrical arias, dramatically challenging pieces and rousing choruses. |
La Bohème - November 2023
THE ELIXIR OF LOVE - JULY 2023
|
|
This July we are proud to present Gaetano Donizetti's enduring, joyous and ever popular comic opera, THE ELIXIR OF LOVE.
A score filled with melody from the beginning to its joyously happy ending, it features some of the most meltingly beautiful and sparkling vocal music ever written, in arias, duets, trios and rousing ensembles.
Join us for this charming and endearing story of the kindhearted, honest and lovesick youth Nemorino who is hopelessly in love with the capricious, feisty and wealthy Adina. To what lengths does he go in his attempts to win her love, and what vested interests do the other characters have, as they complicate his honest pursuits?
With a stellar cast along with our Rockdale Opera company chorus, this is a production that that you won't want to miss!
A score filled with melody from the beginning to its joyously happy ending, it features some of the most meltingly beautiful and sparkling vocal music ever written, in arias, duets, trios and rousing ensembles.
Join us for this charming and endearing story of the kindhearted, honest and lovesick youth Nemorino who is hopelessly in love with the capricious, feisty and wealthy Adina. To what lengths does he go in his attempts to win her love, and what vested interests do the other characters have, as they complicate his honest pursuits?
With a stellar cast along with our Rockdale Opera company chorus, this is a production that that you won't want to miss!
ANNOUNCEMENT OF OUR 2023 SEASON!
|
We are thrilled to announce our 2023 season!
Rockdale Opera Company will present Gaetano Donizetti’s enchanting comic opera "The Elixir of Love" on 1st, 2nd, 8th & 9th of July 2023, and and Giacomo Puccini’s glorious and poignant opera "La Bohème" on 11th, 12th, 18th & 19th November 2023. |
NOVEMBER 2022
DIE FLEDERMAUS GALA CONCERT
Featuring international and Australian Opera stars Daniel Sumegi, Barry Ryan OAM and Dr Anke Hoeppner-Ryan, along with Galatea Kneath, Timothy Nunn, Benjamin Oxley and Daniel Ott.
DIE FLEDERMAUS GALA CONCERT
Featuring international and Australian Opera stars Daniel Sumegi, Barry Ryan OAM and Dr Anke Hoeppner-Ryan, along with Galatea Kneath, Timothy Nunn, Benjamin Oxley and Daniel Ott.
|
19th NOVEMBER CAST
Camilla Wright – Adele Georgia Kokkoris - Rosalinda Daniel Verschuer - Eisenstein Rik Dawson - Dr Falke Samanta Lestavel - Prince Orlofsky Daniel Rae - Frank Charlotte Crowe - Ida Erina Kirton – Melanie ACCOMPIANIST Jamie-Lee Xu *The concert scene will be accompanied by the extraordinary Ingrid Sakurovs
|
20th NOVEMBER CAST
Josephine Brereton – Adele Georgia Kokkoris - Rosalinda Daniel Verschuer - Eisenstein Rik Dawson - Dr Falke Samanta Lestavel - Prince Orlofsky Daniel Rae - Frank Charlotte Crowe - Ida Erina Kirton – Melanie ACCOMPIANIST Ashly Zhang |
|
NOVEMBER 2022 DIE FLEDERMAUS RAFFLE WINNERS
Congratulations to the winners of our Die Fledermaus Gala Raffle and thank you to our most generous sponsors for these incredible prizes!
1st Prize - Jennifer Rae
18ct white gold blue topaz and london blue topaz, diamond drop earrings from Duval Jewellery
2nd Prize - Tina Costas
4 premium reserve tickets to Opera Australia’s production of Carmen on Cockatoo Island
3rd Prize - Megan Chalmers
2 Premium Reserve tickets to Sydney Philharmonia Choirs' 2023 Season concert
Congratulations to the winners of our Die Fledermaus Gala Raffle and thank you to our most generous sponsors for these incredible prizes!
1st Prize - Jennifer Rae
18ct white gold blue topaz and london blue topaz, diamond drop earrings from Duval Jewellery
2nd Prize - Tina Costas
4 premium reserve tickets to Opera Australia’s production of Carmen on Cockatoo Island
3rd Prize - Megan Chalmers
2 Premium Reserve tickets to Sydney Philharmonia Choirs' 2023 Season concert
|
JUNE 2022We are excited to announce that we are presenting
(our previously cancelled) production of Gilbert & Sullivan's H.M.S.PINAFORE! 'HMS Pinafore' is one of the most popular works from the G&S repertoire. It pokes good-natured fun at Victorian society, in this case the British class system, the Royal Navy and patriotism. It includes such favourites as 'Never Mind the Why and Wherefore,' 'I'm called Little Buttercup', the stirring 'For he is an Englishman' and Sir Joseph Porter's satirical 'When I was a Lad'. As always, there's a surprise twist to the tale with a happy ending to suit all! |
|
CAST
Josephine - Galatea Kneath Ralph - James Gander Sir Joseph Porter - Gordon Costello Captain Corcoran - Daniel Rae Little Buttercup - Megan Chalmers Dick Deadeye -Daniel Ott Boatswain - Brett Crocker Cousin Hebe - Christine Premdas-Rogers Carpenter's Mate - Stuart Shaw |
PERFORMANCE DATES
JUNE 18th, 19th, 25th and 26th ROCKDALE TOWN HALL |
ROLL OVER CORONA!
|
We didn't let Covid get us down!
A wonderful post lockdown concert included principals Georgia Kokkoris, Camilla Wright, Kate Fowles, Megan Chalmers. Daniel Verschuer, Jeremy Dubé, Daniel Rae, Gordon Costello along with our amazing ROC ensemble. Directed by Megan Chalmers with Musical Direction by Harrison Collins. |
VALE Robert Gard
|
We are mourning the loss of internationally acclaimed Australian tenor Robert Gard, who passed away on Saturday 20th March 2021 at the age of 94.
Robert Gard had an incredible career that spanned almost six decades. He starred in numerous roles for Opera Australia and other Australian opera companies. During that time, he also sang in four ROC productions between 1965 and 1994, one of the most memorable being Offenbach’s Robinson Crusoe, in which he appeared with his late wife Doreen Morrow. In 2018 we were thrilled that Bob, along with his good friend Geoffrey Chard, was able to join the Company on stage for Rockdale Opera’s 70th Anniversary Gala Concert. It was an honour to have such a renowned artist and charming man leading the birthday celebrations. The opera world has lost a legend but Bob’s wonderful voice will be with us forever. |
Our 2020 Season Cancelled
It is with great sadness that the ROC Committee has reluctantly made the decision to cancel the May production of H.M.S. Pinafore due to the current global coronavirus pandemic and the guidelines issued by health authorities.
The health and safety of our performers, musicians, audiences and all associated with our productions is of the utmost importance. With the uncertainty and rapidly changing health situation we felt that we had no other option. We hope to be able to present H.M.S. Pinafore in 2021.
For those who have already purchased tickets, we will be arranging refunds in due course.
Unfortunately, due to the uncertainty of this constantly evolving situation we have also taken the very difficult decision to cancel the rest of our 2020 program (our Die Fledermaus Gala Concert and The Magic Flute).
We thank you for your support and we hope to see you back at Rockdale Town Hall as soon as this crisis is over. Further announcements will appear here on our website.
In the meantime, stay safe and well.
The health and safety of our performers, musicians, audiences and all associated with our productions is of the utmost importance. With the uncertainty and rapidly changing health situation we felt that we had no other option. We hope to be able to present H.M.S. Pinafore in 2021.
For those who have already purchased tickets, we will be arranging refunds in due course.
Unfortunately, due to the uncertainty of this constantly evolving situation we have also taken the very difficult decision to cancel the rest of our 2020 program (our Die Fledermaus Gala Concert and The Magic Flute).
We thank you for your support and we hope to see you back at Rockdale Town Hall as soon as this crisis is over. Further announcements will appear here on our website.
In the meantime, stay safe and well.
JOIN US!
Happy New Year everyone!
We are looking forward to an exciting year at Rockdale Opera Company and hope that you will join us for HMS Pinafore,
the first of our productions in 2020.
Here's what you need to know:
Production dates - 9, 10, 16, 17 May with production week beginning on 2nd May with bump-in.
Rehearsals: Begin on Tuesday 4th February, 7.30pm with an Orientation night at Coronation Hall, Barden St Arncliffe. Information, scores and a draft schedule will be available on the night. After supper there will be a short rehearsal.
Our MD, Rod Mounjed may take the opportunity to individually hear members of the ensemble to confirm which vocal line best suits their voice range.
Subsequent rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
It will probably not be 2 rehearsals a week to begin with, but please keep in mind that this is up to the production team.
Production fee of $70: This can be paid by card or cash, or direct deposit into ROC's bank account.
Our treasurer will be present at Orientation night to take payments.
If you have any questions at all about the production, please don't hesitate to contact us here.
We look forward to seeing you on Tuesday 4th February!
THE GYPSY BARON raffle winners!
Congratulations to the following raffle winners!
Saturday 9th - 1st Glenda Mitchell, 2nd Nancy Mobbs, 3rd Oliver
Sunday 10th - 1st Brian Galway, 2nd Robert Gascoigne, 3rd Elizabeth Turner
Saturday 16th - 1st Marg, 2nd Rowena, John Morrison
Sunday 17th - 1st Sue Capon, 2nd Pat Sheedy, 3rd June Green
Saturday 9th - 1st Glenda Mitchell, 2nd Nancy Mobbs, 3rd Oliver
Sunday 10th - 1st Brian Galway, 2nd Robert Gascoigne, 3rd Elizabeth Turner
Saturday 16th - 1st Marg, 2nd Rowena, John Morrison
Sunday 17th - 1st Sue Capon, 2nd Pat Sheedy, 3rd June Green
THE GYPSY BARON CAST ANNOUNCEMENT
|
Musical Director Kohki Iwasaki
Director David Brennan CAST SAFFI - Claire Chehade-James ARSENA - Sarah Prestwidge CZIPRA - Carli Partridge BARINKAY - Michael Handy ZSUPAN - Rickard Roach HOMONAY - Rik Dawson OTTOKAR - Daniel Verschuer CARNERO - Gordon Costello MIRABELLA - Alexandra Nixon |
The Mikado raffle winners!
Congratulations to the following raffle winners!
Conchita, Janet Miller, Maddie Drake
Meryl Watson, Theo, Gay Kinsella
Sonya Walker, Mia Litchfield, Marilyn O'Carroll
Janette Freeman, Jenny B, Shirley Frappell
Conchita, Janet Miller, Maddie Drake
Meryl Watson, Theo, Gay Kinsella
Sonya Walker, Mia Litchfield, Marilyn O'Carroll
Janette Freeman, Jenny B, Shirley Frappell
The Mikado Cast Announcement
We are thrilled to announce our amazing cast for The Mikado!
Brett Croker - The Mikado
Daniel Verschuer - Nanki-Poo
Andrew Brunsdon- Ko-Ko
Gordon Costello - Pooh-Bah
Vi King Lim - Pish-Tush
Go-To – Daniel Rae
Kirralee Hillier - Yum-Yum
Zoë Yalouris - Pitti-Sing
Imogen Bilinsky - Peep-Bo
Carli Partridge – Katisha
Brett Croker - The Mikado
Daniel Verschuer - Nanki-Poo
Andrew Brunsdon- Ko-Ko
Gordon Costello - Pooh-Bah
Vi King Lim - Pish-Tush
Go-To – Daniel Rae
Kirralee Hillier - Yum-Yum
Zoë Yalouris - Pitti-Sing
Imogen Bilinsky - Peep-Bo
Carli Partridge – Katisha
Reflections of Opera in Cinema raffle winners!
We are thrilled to announce the following winners of our 'Reflections of Opera in Cinema' raffle!
1st Prize of the beautiful Duvall jewellery - Corinne Parker
2nd prize of the Opera Australia tickets - Juliet Hunt
3rd prize of the Medusa voucher - Maria Caridi
Congratulations to our winners, and a huge thank you to our sponsors!
1st Prize of the beautiful Duvall jewellery - Corinne Parker
2nd prize of the Opera Australia tickets - Juliet Hunt
3rd prize of the Medusa voucher - Maria Caridi
Congratulations to our winners, and a huge thank you to our sponsors!
REFLECTIONS OF OPERA IN CINEMA
|
Our ever popular cabaret REFLECTIONS OF OPERA IN CINEMA will return to the Rockdale Town Hall on Saturday 13th April, with a matinee at 2pm and an evening performance at 7.30pm. This special concert, in cabaret style, features young up and coming singers, together with the Rockdale Opera Company Ensemble in a program of highlights from Opera, Operetta and the works of Gilbert and Sullivan as featured in film.
Featuring Nik Roglich (Bass) Gavin Brown (Tenor) Lewis Barber (Baritone) Daniel Verschuer (Tenor) Rik Dawson (Baritone) Corinne Parker (Soprano) Megan Chalmers (Mezzo Soprano) Julie Paik (Soprano), The Rockdale Opera Company Ensemble All tickets are $55 (See link below) Duration: approx. 2 hrs 15 minutes (includes 20 minute interval) Complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival; shared savoury platters at the table (additional drinks and refreshments are available for purchase). Seating: Cabaret style at tables of 8. Unreserved unless booking a full table of 8 in one transaction. The online booking system won't confirm that, but our Rockdale Opera volunteers will arrange the reservation on the day of the performance. For catering purposes, booking is essential. |
70TH ANNIVERSARY GALA RAFFLE WINNERS
Congratulations to our lucky raffle winners!
1st: Stuart Shaw (ring)
2nd: Mary Venchiarutti (OA Tix)
3rd: Robert Gard 3rd (our 2019 package)
1st: Stuart Shaw (ring)
2nd: Mary Venchiarutti (OA Tix)
3rd: Robert Gard 3rd (our 2019 package)
2019 Bunnings Rockdale Sausage Sizzle Dates
|
Support Rockdale Opera Company by joining us at Bunnings on the following dates for our fundraising BBQ
|
CONGRATULATIONS TO COLLETTE MOVIE WINNERS
|
Congratulations to the winners of the double passes to the wonderful movie ‘Collette’ which opens in Australian cinemas on December 20th. This film features Academy Award nominee Keira Knightley, who portrays the formative years of Colette, who is pushed by her husband to write novels under his names. Upon their success, she fights to make her talents known, challenging gender norms. Directed by Wash Westmoreland (from the Academy Award-winning Still Alice), the film illuminates how Colette developed into a pioneering writer and cultural icon in France, inspiring generations of artists. These tickets have been generously donated by Transmission Films.
|
THE TALES OF HOFFMANN RAFFLE WINNERS
Congratulations to our lucky raffle winners!
August 18th - Arthur Haddad, David Brennan, Megan Chalmers
August 19th - Ruth Dornan, Nicole Taylor
August 25th - Nikolai Morozow, Ted Yarred, Bao Nguyen
August 26th - David Lewis, Nancy and Michael, Larry Dolan
August 18th - Arthur Haddad, David Brennan, Megan Chalmers
August 19th - Ruth Dornan, Nicole Taylor
August 25th - Nikolai Morozow, Ted Yarred, Bao Nguyen
August 26th - David Lewis, Nancy and Michael, Larry Dolan
SEVENTY YEARS AT ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY - AVAILABLE NOW!
|
Our 70th Anniversary Commemorative Book is available now for purchase...
$25 for a walk down memory’s lane covering 70 glorious years at Rockdale opera - information, photos, statistics, tributes and reminiscences! and YOU could be in it! The book can be purchased at our upcoming production of THE TALES OF HOFFMANN, mailed (Postage $5) or picked up from the Committee by arrangement. *SOLD OUT |
70TH ANNIVERSARY EXHIBITION AT BAYSIDE LIBRARY in ROCKDALE
|
|
Did you know that the Rockdale Opera Company is the oldest opera company in Australia? It pre-dates the national company by nearly a decade. Come and discover its history in this exhibition. Everything from props and costumes to old photographs will be on display.
ANNOUNCING OUR CAST FOR THE TALES OF HOFFMANN
|
And the ladies and gentlemen of the Rockdale Opera Company Ensemble
Esther Arlidge-Lyon, Donna Cain, Natalie Rose Cassanitti, Peter Chappell, Lynette Davis, Madeleine Drake, Ted Evans, Tarryn Frappell, Rachael Fullston, Rebecca Gladys-Lee, Bader Hamwi, Paul Jeloudev, Olivia Morberger, Nikolai Morozow, Sally Ruth, Rose Sapuppo, Nancy Tam, Mikayla Tate, John Tse, Martin Turner, Lucy Vallely, Susan Wareham, Jenny Watson, Robin Wilkie, Noriko Yamanaka |
ANNOUNCING OUR RENDEZVOUS AT ORLOFSKY'S CABARET SOLOISTS!
|
We are thrilled to announce the following soloists for our upcoming Cabaret!
Megan Chalmers (Mezzo Soprano) Alastair Colgrave (Baritone) Michaella Zhang (Soprano) Georgia Kokkoris (Soprano) Blake Parham (Tenor) Jeremy Dubé (Baritone) Rebecca Hart (Mezzo Soprano) Ingrid Sakurovs (Musical Director) 
|
Join us for Rendezvous at Orlofsky’s Cabaret! This special concert in cabaret style, features our beloved opera stars, along with up and coming opera singers and our Rockdale Opera Ensemble. It's a highly entertaining program of your favourites from opera, operetta and the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. Enjoy a complimentary drink with a shared savoury platter in a relaxed atmosphere, with the passion of opera, the sparkle of operetta and the merriment of Gilbert & Sullivan!
ROCKDALE TOWN HALL . APRIL 7 2018, 2PM & 7:30PM TICKETS $55.00 Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes, including 20 minute interval. Seating: Cabaret Style at tables of 8 Unreserved unless booking a full table in one transaction Ticket is inclusive of a complimentary beverage on arrival and shared savoury platters Bookings essential |
OUR IL CAMPANELLO and SUOR ANGELICA RAFFLE WINNERS
Congratulations to our lucky raffle winners!
November 11th - Gail Stacey, Helen Turner, Arthur
November 12th - Shirley Robertson, Maria Jenkins, Marjory Kirk
November 18th - Megan Chalmers, Kim, Studio 201, Lynda
November 19th - Ron, Allan Freeman, Tarryn
November 11th - Gail Stacey, Helen Turner, Arthur
November 12th - Shirley Robertson, Maria Jenkins, Marjory Kirk
November 18th - Megan Chalmers, Kim, Studio 201, Lynda
November 19th - Ron, Allan Freeman, Tarryn
CAST ANNOUNCEMENT FOR IL CAMPANELLO and SUOR ANGELICA
Gaetano Donizetti's IL CAMPANELLO
and Giacomo Puccini's SUOR ANGELICA an OPERA DOUBLE BILL of comedy & tragedy November 11 - 19 Musical Director Steven Stanke Directors Joe Restubog (Il Campanello) & Ralph Bott (Suor Angelica) |
|
OUR GONDOLIERS RAFFLE WINNERS
Congratulations to our lucky raffle winners!
Raffle winners/double pass to November production - Rachel Balales, V. Jackson, Jennifer Sipos, Ralph P.
Lucky/signed programs/double pass to November production -Jane Anderson, Bryson Camage
Silent Auction for Andrew Sibley limited edition lithograph of The Gondoliers 1989, generously donated by John and Cheryl Morrison -
Winner, with top bid of $325 - Mr Ralph Penglis
Raffle winners/double pass to November production - Rachel Balales, V. Jackson, Jennifer Sipos, Ralph P.
Lucky/signed programs/double pass to November production -Jane Anderson, Bryson Camage
Silent Auction for Andrew Sibley limited edition lithograph of The Gondoliers 1989, generously donated by John and Cheryl Morrison -
Winner, with top bid of $325 - Mr Ralph Penglis
ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY 2017 GALA FUNDRAISING EVENT
|
Our 2017 Gala Fundraising concert was an enormous success for both the company and the audience attending. We are so humbled by the generosity and talents of international opera singers Emma Matthews & José Carbó, the stunning stars of the evening.
Likewise, our Rockdale Opera ensemble and soloists did a glorious job. Bravo to all involved! Pictured here are photos from fans and Rockdale Opera Company members celebrating the evening. CONGRATULATIONS to our raffle winners for the production: 3rd prize - Ms Gwynne P. 2nd prize - Nick Diasinos 1st prize - Megan Chalmers Thank you to Medusa Greek Taverna, Opera Australia and Duval Jewellery for sponsoring our event. And a final thank you to the cast, crew, volunteers, and especially to our audience & patrons who made the evening so special. |
|
CAST ANNOUNCEMENT FOR THE GONDOLIERS
WS Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan's
THE GONDOLIERS June 24 - July 2 Director Ralph Bott Musical Director Jon Smith |
|
2017 TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
INFORMATION NIGHT FOR THE GONDOLIERS
|
Join our chorus
Come along to our information night to hear our director Ralph Bott and Musical Director Jon Smith reveal their vision for this well-loved Gilbert & Sullivan. Our ROC Committee will also be in attendance to to let you know about other exciting happenings at ROC this year. Supper will be provided followed by a short first music rehearsal. All welcome! When: Tuesday 7th February at 7.30pm Where: Coronation Hall Cnr Barden and Stanley Streets Arncliffe |
ANNOUNCING THE ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY JOHN AND JENNIFER BRUKNER
COMMUNITY ARTS OUTREACH INITIATIVE
|
The inaugural Rockdale Opera Company Community Arts Outreach Initiative is being undertaken in 2017 by Rockdale Opera Company through the generosity of the John and Jennifer Brukner Foundation. The Foundation has purchased tickets in support of this initiative, to be given free of charge to schools and community organisations in 2017 and 2018. The program will be known as The Rockdale Opera Company John and Jennifer Brukner Community Arts Outreach Initiative.
The aim of the initiative is to provide an opportunity for young people and those within our community, who may not otherwise have the opportunity, to attend a Rockdale Opera Company performance. It is hoped that in so doing we can encourage, foster and stimulate interest in opera/operetta, thereby ensuring that future generations and audiences will know and appreciate not only the beauty, cultural significance and immense joy of this art form but also ensure that the cultural and performing arts tradition established in Rockdale and our wider community continues to develop. It is our hope that others will be inspired by the generosity and foresight of the John and Jennifer Brukner Foundation and to make a contribution to this wonderful initiative. If you wish to contribute please do not hesitate to contact us at [email protected] |
THE BARTERED BRIDE CLOSES TO STANDING OVATIONS
|
Our production of The Bartered Bride finished on an extraordinary high last Sunday, with a standing ovation and audience members getting their own happy snaps of the on-stage cast photo!
The production's success was due in great part to industry professionals Luise Napier and Julia de Plater and the inspired choreography of Rachael Fullston. The four performances played to very enthusiastic audiences, many of whom had no prior knowledge of the opera, but nevertheless enjoyed Smetana's beautiful music sung by some amazing principals and the wonderful ROC Ensemble. Our customers seemed to love the fresh Aussie interpretation of the Czech story, complete with an authentic corrugated iron dunny, the odd cockatoo and wombat and a mixture of modern and traditional costuming. There was an "Oooh-Aaah" moment when the Circus burst onto the stage with a kaleidoscope of colour, spinning hoops and plates and a high-kicking koala named Kevin! We were thrilled to welcome so many members of the Czech community to our 4 performances, especially Ms Hana Flanderová, the Czech Consul General who provided us with a great deal of support throughout the production period. They were generous with their compliments and very excited (and amazed!) to be hearing their "national" composer here at Rockdale! A big thankyou to all who came to see The Bartered Bride and we look forward to seeing you again next April for our Gala Fundraising Concert with OA stars, José Carbó and Emma Matthews, headlining ROC principals and our Ensemble. |
THE BARTERED BRIDE'S
raffle/lucky program winners who win 2 tickets to The Gondoliers next June 12th - Andrew and Ian Johnson 13th - Tom Wu and Roger Dornan 19th - Julie Chandra and Ben Burton 20th - Glenn Winsdale Congratulations! |
ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY ANNOUNCES 2017 SEASON
|
Rockdale Opera Company is thrilled to announce our 2017 Season.
With a Gala Fundraising Concert headlined by two extraordinary artists, a sparkling G&S and a double-bill opera which will take you from heartfelt sorrow to outright hilarity, we are sure there will be something for everyone to enjoy! Our season kicks off with a GALA FUNDRAISING CONCERT featuring our new co-Patron, internationally renowned baritone and OA favourite, José Carbó, together with international and OA star, soprano Emma Matthews. They will be joined by emerging operatic artists and the ROC Ensemble in a program of highlights from opera, operetta and the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan's THE GONDOLIERS will return to the Rockdale stage after an absence of 14 years. One of the most popular of Gilbert and Sullivan's operettas - and no wonder, with Gilbert's witty lyrics, Sullivan's joyous music including the energetic cachucha, a large cast of principals supported by a host of gallant gondolieri and colourful contadine and last but certainly not least, some very interesting characters from the Sunny Spanish Shore. We welcome back Jon Smith (MD) and Ralph Bott (Director) as the production team. Our final production for the year will be an opera double-bill and a premiere for Rockdale Opera Company. These 2 one act operas will have you crying with both laughter and sadness. Gaetano Donizetti's IL CAMPANELLO is a comedy about the most interrupted wedding night anyone could imagine, whilst Giacomo Puccini's SUOR ANGELICA, the tragic tale of a Mother's love for the baby she was forced to give up, will be sure to tear at your heart strings. Angelica's famous aria "Senza Mamma" is one of Puccini's most touching compositions. The ROC Committee would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your patronage in 2016 and to cordially invite you to join us at Rockdale Town Hall next year for our three exciting productions! |
|
ROCKDALE OPERA'S GALA FUNDRAISING CONCERT
Saturday 8th April
with international opera stars José Carbó & Emma Matthews
and the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Rockdale Opera Company Ensemble
WS Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan's
THE GONDOLIERS
June 24 - July 2
Director Ralph Bott
Musical Director Jon Smith
and presenting for the first time, an OPERA DOUBLE BILL of comedy and tragedy:
Gaetano Donizetti's
IL CAMPANELLO
and Giacomo Puccini's
SUOR ANGELICA
November 11 - 19
Saturday 8th April
with international opera stars José Carbó & Emma Matthews
and the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Rockdale Opera Company Ensemble
WS Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan's
THE GONDOLIERS
June 24 - July 2
Director Ralph Bott
Musical Director Jon Smith
and presenting for the first time, an OPERA DOUBLE BILL of comedy and tragedy:
Gaetano Donizetti's
IL CAMPANELLO
and Giacomo Puccini's
SUOR ANGELICA
November 11 - 19
ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY IS PROUD TO WELCOME MR JOSÉ CARBÓ, INTERNATIONALLY RENOWNED BARITONE, AS CO-PATRON IN CONJUNCTION WITH MR DANIEL SUMEGI
We are very excited to welcome José Carbó as co patron of Rockdale Opera Company.
|
Dear Opera Lovers,
It is with great pleasure and pride that I inform you of my decision to wholeheartedly accept the invitation extended to me to become, along with my colleague Daniel Sumegi, co patron of Rockdale Opera Company. I look forward to being able to help in any way I can towards the continued survival, development and success of the company and our beloved art form. As an up and coming singer, I was fortunate to have performed five roles with the company. Since establishing my professional career, I now consider it an honour and a responsibility to ensure there continues to be a platform which will enable the company to further prosper and adapt to the requirements and demands of present day live operatic entertainment. It is vital we succeed so future generations of singers can continue to have the opportunity and a platform where they can learn their trade and ply their craft and gain much needed and valuable performance experience, as I and all that came before me have had. I have many practical and strategic ideas, some of which involve collective, community based campaigns and initiatives, which I believe can help the company thrive long into the future. Having already met with the committee on a number of occasions, it is clear that we share the same passionate commitment for opera and live performance across a wide range of genres. However, I am aware that this group of dedicated and talented individuals also needs to be supported in every way. I know the company already has a wonderful group of dedicated volunteers prepared to donate their time and expertise towards the execution of the many tasks involved however, in an effort to keep ROC operational and successfully marketed, I believe more are needed. Please consider this gracious introductory letter as a “call to arms” for the sake of our company. I have no doubt that together with our committee we can all make a difference, not only to the bottom line of the company but also help establish a resurgence of this wonderful art form within the cultural fabric of our extended community. I invite you all, along with Daniel Sumegi and our committee, to be part of these very exciting and promising future initiatives. Sincerely, José Carbó |
CO-PATRON DANIEL SUMEGI WELCOMES JOSÉ CARBÓ TO ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY
|
It is with great pleasure that I welcome the news that internationally renowned Australian baritone José Carbó will join me as co-patron of Rockdale Opera Company.
Following José’s spectacular début with Opera Australia, in Strauss’ Ariadne auf Naxos (in 2002) he has performed in major Opera houses throughout Europe and America. He made his European début in Italy in 2005 at the Teatro dell’ Opera di Roma where he sang the title role in Le Nozze di Figaro. That same year, he sang the title role in Il Barbiere di Siviglia for the Teatro Real in Madrid. He made his La Scala debut in 2009 in Il Viaggio a Reims and his American debut in 2011 as Rossini’s Figaro in Seattle. He has returned to perform in Australia on many occasions since establishing his international career. His roles for Opera Australia have included, Anckarström in a new production of Un Ballo in Maschera, Fritz in Die tote Stadt (for which he received the Helpmann Award in 2013), the title role in Rigoletto, Germont in La Traviata, Rodrigo in Don Carlo and most recently, Zurga in The Pearl Fishers. José’ has also performed with the major orchestras in Australia and New Zealand. His debut album, My Latin Heart (recorded with Slava and Leonard Grigoryan and released by ABC Classics) debuted at No. 1 on the Limelight Magazine Classical Music charts. Like me, José performed with the Rockdale Opera Company in his early years and understands the importance of supporting community arts organisations, like Rockdale Opera Company, which provide invaluable performance opportunities and experience to young developing artists as they work towards building their professional career. His passion for his art, his extraordinary talent and generosity of spirit will be a fabulous asset to the Company and I look forward to working with him in furthering the aims and objectives of Rockdale Opera Company. Daniel Sumegi |
ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD A HUGE SUCCESS!
Our recent season of Orpheus in the Underworld has just finished with the company on a real high. Audience responses were absolutely wonderful with enthusiastic applause inspiring the cast to even greater levels of excellence. Compliments ranged from "amazing standard of principals and ensemble ", "best show I have ever seen at Rockdale", to "stunning costumes" and "such fun to watch ".
You can see a complete photo gallery of
Orpheus in the Underworld on our Photo Gallery Page here
Photos courtesy of photographer Di Greenhaw
RAFFLE WINNERS!
CONGRATULATIONS to the winners of the fabulous Orpheus hampers - (plus tickets to our November Production of The Bartered Bride)
Stuart Shaw
Neville Frappell
Richard Cranston
Jennie Burrell
You can see a complete photo gallery of
Orpheus in the Underworld on our Photo Gallery Page here
Photos courtesy of photographer Di Greenhaw
RAFFLE WINNERS!
CONGRATULATIONS to the winners of the fabulous Orpheus hampers - (plus tickets to our November Production of The Bartered Bride)
Stuart Shaw
Neville Frappell
Richard Cranston
Jennie Burrell
|
ANNOUNCING OUR STELLAR CAST FOR THE BARTERED BRIDE!
Following our production of Orpheus in the Underworld this July, we are thrilled to bring you Smetana's Bartered Bride in November! Starring Georgia Kokkoris - Mařenka Joshua Oxley - Jenik Christopher Curcuruto - Kecal Blake Parham - Vašek Kate Wilmot - Ludmila Rory Struthers - Krušina Frances Carlile - Hata Jonathan Carlile - Micha Rachael Fullston - Esmeralda Ray Dubber - Directeur de Cirque and the ladies and gentlemen of Rockdale Opera Company's ensemble |
Rendezvous at Orlofsky’s Cabaret 2016
The fabulous Orlofsky’s Cabaret returned to Rockdale Town Hall on Saturday 2nd April.
Compered again by Ralph Bott, it truly was a “Rendezvous” with a number of our 2015 performers back with us and many of last year’s audience returning for another amazing concert. If audience enthusiasm is anything to go by, the Cabaret was clearly a huge success.The auditorium was once again transformed into an elegant cabaret venue, with burgundy table settings, the beautiful Baby Grand in the capable hands of Ingrid Sakurovs and our performers dressed in a gorgeous array of colorful gowns and very swish dinner suits!
Prince Orlofsky himself (Megan Chalmers) again welcomed guests and extolled the virtues of the beautiful city of Vienna, in Vienna City of My Dreams. This song followed the rousing opening number from the Rockdale Opera Ensemble, The Students’ Marching Song from The Student Prince.
This year’s Cabaret once again featured a mixture of all-time favorites with some less well known but equally beautiful numbers. Soonki Park held the audience in the palm of his hands when he sang Se Vuol Ballare from The Marriage of Figaro and Bella Siccome un Angelo from Don Pasquale. While Daniel Sloman’s voice soared in the glorious Lensky’s aria from Eugene Onegin and the fabulous Musica Proibita by Stanislao Gastaldon.Corinne Parker once again amazed us all with her stunning renditions of Marietta’s Lied by Erich Korngold and Art is Calling for Me by Victor Herbert. Daniel joined Corinne to sing the beautiful duet O Soave Fanciulla from La Boheme by Pucinni.
Paul Sutton (who is Orpheus in ROC’s upcoming production of Orpheus in the Underworld) sang the glorious La Barcheta by Reynaldo Hahn and Jermaine Chau performed the French waltz Les Chemins de l’Amour by Poulenc. Both performances were captivating. A surprise inclusion was Megan’s spirited performance of I Hate Men from Kiss Me Kate! Samanta Lestavel (and the Ensemble) thrilled the audience with the haunting Vilja from The Merry Widow. There was an audible sigh of deep satisfaction with the closing note, followed by rapturous applause! There were a number of Gilbert & Sullivan numbers included in the concert. The lovely Madrigal from The Mikado was presented by Megan, Samanta, Paul and Harrison Collins. The double chorus from Patience - In a doleful train with twenty (well, almost!) lovesick maidens traipsing around the auditorium in hot pursuit of the aesthete Bunthorne (Gordon Costello) was great fun!
The Cabaret also showcased highlights from Orpheus in the Underworld with Paul Sutton as Orpheus, Stephanie Jennifer Poropat as Eurydice, Claire Chehade-James as Diana, Tisha Kelemen as Venus, Christopher Curcuruto as Mars and the Rockdale Opera Ensemble (with a fabulous virtuoso violin performance by Harrison Collins). Judging by the applause, all goes well for this production in July.
Orlofsky’s 2016 Cabaret ended on a high note (literally) with Megan, Daniel, Corinne and the entire Ensemble presenting the bubbly Champagne Song from Die Fledermaus, followed by the riotous finale from The Marriage of Figaro in which we encouraged the audience to “revel all the night”!
A big thank you to everyone who attended Orlofsky’s Cabaret. We invite you to join us again next year for another fabulous afternoon or evening of beautiful music, good company and amazing prizes and Prince Orlofsky looks forward to seeing you at ROC’s 2016 productions - Orpheus in the Underworld and The Bartered Bride.
Lyn Davis
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RAFFLE WINNERS!
1st (Opera Australia Tickets) David Brennan
2nd - (Novotel) David McDonald
3rd - (Medusa Restaurant) Stephen Jones
A big thank you to our sponsors!
The fabulous Orlofsky’s Cabaret returned to Rockdale Town Hall on Saturday 2nd April.
Compered again by Ralph Bott, it truly was a “Rendezvous” with a number of our 2015 performers back with us and many of last year’s audience returning for another amazing concert. If audience enthusiasm is anything to go by, the Cabaret was clearly a huge success.The auditorium was once again transformed into an elegant cabaret venue, with burgundy table settings, the beautiful Baby Grand in the capable hands of Ingrid Sakurovs and our performers dressed in a gorgeous array of colorful gowns and very swish dinner suits!
Prince Orlofsky himself (Megan Chalmers) again welcomed guests and extolled the virtues of the beautiful city of Vienna, in Vienna City of My Dreams. This song followed the rousing opening number from the Rockdale Opera Ensemble, The Students’ Marching Song from The Student Prince.
This year’s Cabaret once again featured a mixture of all-time favorites with some less well known but equally beautiful numbers. Soonki Park held the audience in the palm of his hands when he sang Se Vuol Ballare from The Marriage of Figaro and Bella Siccome un Angelo from Don Pasquale. While Daniel Sloman’s voice soared in the glorious Lensky’s aria from Eugene Onegin and the fabulous Musica Proibita by Stanislao Gastaldon.Corinne Parker once again amazed us all with her stunning renditions of Marietta’s Lied by Erich Korngold and Art is Calling for Me by Victor Herbert. Daniel joined Corinne to sing the beautiful duet O Soave Fanciulla from La Boheme by Pucinni.
Paul Sutton (who is Orpheus in ROC’s upcoming production of Orpheus in the Underworld) sang the glorious La Barcheta by Reynaldo Hahn and Jermaine Chau performed the French waltz Les Chemins de l’Amour by Poulenc. Both performances were captivating. A surprise inclusion was Megan’s spirited performance of I Hate Men from Kiss Me Kate! Samanta Lestavel (and the Ensemble) thrilled the audience with the haunting Vilja from The Merry Widow. There was an audible sigh of deep satisfaction with the closing note, followed by rapturous applause! There were a number of Gilbert & Sullivan numbers included in the concert. The lovely Madrigal from The Mikado was presented by Megan, Samanta, Paul and Harrison Collins. The double chorus from Patience - In a doleful train with twenty (well, almost!) lovesick maidens traipsing around the auditorium in hot pursuit of the aesthete Bunthorne (Gordon Costello) was great fun!
The Cabaret also showcased highlights from Orpheus in the Underworld with Paul Sutton as Orpheus, Stephanie Jennifer Poropat as Eurydice, Claire Chehade-James as Diana, Tisha Kelemen as Venus, Christopher Curcuruto as Mars and the Rockdale Opera Ensemble (with a fabulous virtuoso violin performance by Harrison Collins). Judging by the applause, all goes well for this production in July.
Orlofsky’s 2016 Cabaret ended on a high note (literally) with Megan, Daniel, Corinne and the entire Ensemble presenting the bubbly Champagne Song from Die Fledermaus, followed by the riotous finale from The Marriage of Figaro in which we encouraged the audience to “revel all the night”!
A big thank you to everyone who attended Orlofsky’s Cabaret. We invite you to join us again next year for another fabulous afternoon or evening of beautiful music, good company and amazing prizes and Prince Orlofsky looks forward to seeing you at ROC’s 2016 productions - Orpheus in the Underworld and The Bartered Bride.
Lyn Davis
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RAFFLE WINNERS!
1st (Opera Australia Tickets) David Brennan
2nd - (Novotel) David McDonald
3rd - (Medusa Restaurant) Stephen Jones
A big thank you to our sponsors!
|
SEE YOU AT ORLOFSKY'S CABARET!
We are thrilled to announce that due to overwhelmingly positive responses from our audiences, 'Rendezvous at Orlofsky's Cabaret' will be back in 2016! Join us in a relaxed Cabaret atmosphere with a glass of wine and nibbles, whilst enjoying a sampler of the beautiful music Rockdale Opera Company has to offer. Come with friends and make a table, or come on your own, we promise you an afternoon or evening of sheer enjoyment. The program will feature fabulous singers presenting favourites from Opera, Operetta and Gilbert and Sullivan. Saturday 2 April at 2.00 pm (doors open at 1.15 pm) and 7.30 pm (doors open at 6.45 pm) TICKETS $50 each which includes a complimentary drink on arrival with shared savoury platters on each table. SEATING: Cabaret style at tables of 8 For catering purposes bookings are essential. Great prizes to be won! *Unreserved seating unless booking a full table in one transaction. TO BOOK PHONE 02 4730 6932 |
|
ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD CAST ANNOUNCED!
Orpheus in the Underworld: an Opera Feerie
By Jacques Offenbach Original libretto by Hector Crémieux and Ludovac Halevy *New English translation by Greg Condon Christopher Hamilton, James McCarthy and Simone Young ROCKDALE TOWN HALL
Saturday 30th July 7:30pm Sunday 31st July 2:00pm Saturday 6th August 7:30pm Sunday 7th August 2:00pm |
PRODUCTION TEAM
Musical Director - Jon Smith Director - Ralph Bott Choreographer - Sami Shalom CAST (In order of appearance) Public Opinion – Megan Chalmers Eurydice – Stephanie J Poropat Orpheus – Paul Sutton Artisteus/Pluto – Blake Parham Venus – Tisha Kelemen Cupid – Rachael Fullston Mars – Christopher Curcuruto Morpheus – Elizabeth Beilharz Jupiter – Gordon Costello Diana – Claire Chehade - James Mercury - Daine Ellicott Juno – Kate Wilmot Aurora - Rose Sapuppo John Styx, King of the Boeotia – Rory Struthers |
OUR 2016 SEASON ANNOUNCED!
|
|
|
"RENDEZVOUS at ORLOFSKY's CABARET" - Saturday 2nd April.
"ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD" - July 30th, 31st and August 6th, 7th
"THE BARTERED BRIDE" - November 12th,13th,19th and 20th.
"ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD" - July 30th, 31st and August 6th, 7th
"THE BARTERED BRIDE" - November 12th,13th,19th and 20th.
|
MARRIAGE OF FIGARO A HUGE SUCCESS!Our audiences went away raving about the talent both on and off the stage of our recent production of Mozart's most beloved opera's The Marriage of Figaro.
You can read what the critics thought below! David Spicer - STAGE WHISPERS Maggy Franklin - SYDNEY ARTS GUIDE 
|
|
|
|
OUR MARRIAGE OF FIGARO RAFFLE WINNERS!
FIRST PRIZE
2 A Reserve tickets for OA's 2016 season
Won by Pauline Duncan
(Who also won 3rd prize in the hamper on the first Sunday. Pauline thinks she should buy a lottery ticket!!)
HAMPER WINNERS
Saturday 7th - Dezi Terzopoulos, Ray Dubber, Jenny James
Sunday 8th - Mrs Simoni, Tarryn, Pauline Duncan
Saturday 14th - Stephen Jones, Ray, David Brennan
Sunday 15th - Tarryn, Don, Lynne
Drawn by our Bartered Bride production team, Julia de Plater and Luise Napier.
2 A Reserve tickets for OA's 2016 season
Won by Pauline Duncan
(Who also won 3rd prize in the hamper on the first Sunday. Pauline thinks she should buy a lottery ticket!!)
HAMPER WINNERS
Saturday 7th - Dezi Terzopoulos, Ray Dubber, Jenny James
Sunday 8th - Mrs Simoni, Tarryn, Pauline Duncan
Saturday 14th - Stephen Jones, Ray, David Brennan
Sunday 15th - Tarryn, Don, Lynne
Drawn by our Bartered Bride production team, Julia de Plater and Luise Napier.
|
BACK IN 2016 DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND!!We are thrilled to announce that due to overwhelmingly positive responses from our audiences, Rendezvous at Orlofsky's Cabaret will be back in 2016!
Join us in a relaxed Cabaret atmosphere with a glass of wine and nibbles, whilst enjoying a sampler of the beautiful music Rockdale Opera has to offer. The program will feature fabulous singers presenting favourites from Opera, Operetta and Gilbert and Sullivan. Ticket price covers a complimentary glass of bubbly and savoury nibbles at your table. Tickets are limited and will be available from early in the New Year. Come with friends and make a table, or come on your own, we promise you an afternoon or evening of sheer enjoyment. Saturday 2nd April 2016 Two performances only 2pm or 7:30 pm Phone bookings : (02) 4730 6932 |
A YEAR OF "FIRSTS" FOR US!
2015 has been a year of firsts for ROC, kicking off with our fabulous inagural ‘Rendezvous at Orlofsky’s Cabaret’ in April and then our hugely successful “Makeup and wig dressing workshop” in September.
Those who attended the workshop ranged from novices through to very experienced performers (women, girls and men). Rachel Del Santo and her wonderful off-sider Nikki not only imparted a huge amount of information but gave us wonderful tips and insights on what to do (and not to do!). Everyone who came along said how much fun it was and how lucky we were to hear and learn from the experts. (The sumptuous supper afterwards was also a draw card!)
We followed the workshop with our exclusive social event on 19 September. Those who came along got the scoop on our season for 2016! The evening was one of divine food (thank you Katerina, John and Bill of Mama’s Café Patisserie, Bexley) and even better company! It was a great opportunity to unwind, learn a bit more about each other and completely over-indulge in a supportive, friendly and relaxed environment!
2015 has been a year of firsts for ROC, kicking off with our fabulous inagural ‘Rendezvous at Orlofsky’s Cabaret’ in April and then our hugely successful “Makeup and wig dressing workshop” in September.
Those who attended the workshop ranged from novices through to very experienced performers (women, girls and men). Rachel Del Santo and her wonderful off-sider Nikki not only imparted a huge amount of information but gave us wonderful tips and insights on what to do (and not to do!). Everyone who came along said how much fun it was and how lucky we were to hear and learn from the experts. (The sumptuous supper afterwards was also a draw card!)
We followed the workshop with our exclusive social event on 19 September. Those who came along got the scoop on our season for 2016! The evening was one of divine food (thank you Katerina, John and Bill of Mama’s Café Patisserie, Bexley) and even better company! It was a great opportunity to unwind, learn a bit more about each other and completely over-indulge in a supportive, friendly and relaxed environment!
A MESSAGE FROM OUR PATRON DANIEL SUMEGI
Dear fellow opera-lovers, and cherished Rockdale Opera supporters,
I'd like to invite you to our second fully-staged offering for 2015, Mozart’s eternally charming The Marriage of Figaro. The production team are hard at work, and have assembled an excellent cast, headed by the very talented “bridal couple” Phoebe-Celeste Humphreys and Daniel Macey.
“Many opera-lovers would name The Marriage of Figaro as their favourite opera. It appeals to the most intellectual listener, but also to music-lovers seeking great melodies and ensembles (while it remains accessible through its fascinating plot and memorable characters) and to those seeking only entertainment. One of three operas by Mozart to libretti by Lorenzo da Ponte it represents one of the pinnacles not just of operatic but of human achievement.” (Thomson Smillie)
Your ongoing support of Rockdale Opera and its commitment to providing community-based classical music is highly appreciated. We do not take it for granted, and we could absolutely not continue without your attendance. Rockdale Opera has provided a stepping stone to many of Australia’s most beloved singers, and we endeavour to continue that tradition. Spread the word.
Daniel Sumegi
Patron, Rockale Opera Company
Dear fellow opera-lovers, and cherished Rockdale Opera supporters,
I'd like to invite you to our second fully-staged offering for 2015, Mozart’s eternally charming The Marriage of Figaro. The production team are hard at work, and have assembled an excellent cast, headed by the very talented “bridal couple” Phoebe-Celeste Humphreys and Daniel Macey.
“Many opera-lovers would name The Marriage of Figaro as their favourite opera. It appeals to the most intellectual listener, but also to music-lovers seeking great melodies and ensembles (while it remains accessible through its fascinating plot and memorable characters) and to those seeking only entertainment. One of three operas by Mozart to libretti by Lorenzo da Ponte it represents one of the pinnacles not just of operatic but of human achievement.” (Thomson Smillie)
Your ongoing support of Rockdale Opera and its commitment to providing community-based classical music is highly appreciated. We do not take it for granted, and we could absolutely not continue without your attendance. Rockdale Opera has provided a stepping stone to many of Australia’s most beloved singers, and we endeavour to continue that tradition. Spread the word.
Daniel Sumegi
Patron, Rockale Opera Company
MARRIAGE OF FIGARO CAST ANNOUNCED!
|
Count - James Olds
Countess - Kirsten Jones Susanna - Phoebe-Celeste Humphreys Cherubino - Jermaine Chau Figaro - Daniel Macy Bartolo - Ian Fisher Marcellina - Megan Chalmers Basilio - Blake Parham Curzio - Ray Dubber Barbarina - Bernice Zandona and The Rockdale Opera Company Chorus |
“Trial by Jury” and “Cox & Box” was a huge success!
Rockdale Opera Company would like to say a big thank you to our loyal patrons for coming to see a relatively unknown Gilbert and Sullivan production.
For those of you who trusted our judgement and made it to one of our shows, you were rewarded with a treat – fabulous performances, wonderful sets, gorgeous costumes and of course the brilliance of Sullivan’s music. You can see some lovely pics of the productions here
G&S fans were particularly excited about Jon Smith’s direction and the chance to see “Cox & Box” in its original form. There were two diehards who returned a second time because they were sure they would never have the opportunity to see that version again in their lifetime! That’s devotion for you.
Sydney Arts Guide critic David Kary, gave us a terrific review which you can read here
The Committee would like to thank our Trial by Jury/Cox & Box Company who were a great bunch of people – from old hands, through ROC regulars, to first timers! We hope many of them will be back with us for future shows.
We are now excitedly looking to our next offering - “The Marriage of Figaro” in November directed by Paulo Montoya. This is Paulo's first time with ROC and we are very excited by his vision for this opera. Our MD Steven Stanke (who last worked with us in “Iolanthe” in 2011), joins a brilliantly talented cast of singers who will bring you the brilliance of Mozart’s comic opera.
Rockdale Opera Company would like to say a big thank you to our loyal patrons for coming to see a relatively unknown Gilbert and Sullivan production.
For those of you who trusted our judgement and made it to one of our shows, you were rewarded with a treat – fabulous performances, wonderful sets, gorgeous costumes and of course the brilliance of Sullivan’s music. You can see some lovely pics of the productions here
G&S fans were particularly excited about Jon Smith’s direction and the chance to see “Cox & Box” in its original form. There were two diehards who returned a second time because they were sure they would never have the opportunity to see that version again in their lifetime! That’s devotion for you.
Sydney Arts Guide critic David Kary, gave us a terrific review which you can read here
The Committee would like to thank our Trial by Jury/Cox & Box Company who were a great bunch of people – from old hands, through ROC regulars, to first timers! We hope many of them will be back with us for future shows.
We are now excitedly looking to our next offering - “The Marriage of Figaro” in November directed by Paulo Montoya. This is Paulo's first time with ROC and we are very excited by his vision for this opera. Our MD Steven Stanke (who last worked with us in “Iolanthe” in 2011), joins a brilliantly talented cast of singers who will bring you the brilliance of Mozart’s comic opera.
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR LATEST RAFFLE WINNERS!
Sat 30th - Ward, Bharti, Denise
Sun 31st - John M, Alex, Jeanette.
Sat 6th - Elsie Yalouris, Davis, Nancy.
Sun 7th - Virginia Orr, Pam Neeman, Chris Coad
All 1st prize winners have also received 2 complimentary tickets to 'Marriage of Figaro' this November.
Sat 30th - Ward, Bharti, Denise
Sun 31st - John M, Alex, Jeanette.
Sat 6th - Elsie Yalouris, Davis, Nancy.
Sun 7th - Virginia Orr, Pam Neeman, Chris Coad
All 1st prize winners have also received 2 complimentary tickets to 'Marriage of Figaro' this November.
|
Our audiences are raving about our Rendezvous at Orlofsky’s Cabaret!
Our 2015 season got off to a brilliant start on Saturday 18th April when Rendezvous at Orlofsky’s Cabaret opened its doors to a very appreciative public! From the beautiful burgundy table settings, to the elegantly clad performers, from the opening surprise Flashmob performing the rousing Drinking Song from The Student Prince to the fabulous Ensemble finale of the Brindisi, from the incredible Ingrid Sakurovs at the Baby Grand to Orlofsky himself (Megan Chalmers in tuxedo-clad sartorial splendour!) – our audiences experienced an afternoon and evening of glorious music and amazing talent. Old-time favourites like You are my Heart’s Delight (Daniel Sloman) One Alone (Megan Chalmers) and Goodbye (Jonathon Chan) received rapturous applause from members of the audience who fondly remembered the wonderful operettas Land of Smiles, Desert Song and White Horse Inn. Likewise the beautiful harmonies of The Barcarolle Duet (Megan and Stephanie Poropat) and The Pearl Fishers Duet (Daniel and Soonki Park) left the audience spellbound. Two favourites from Carmen gave the audience a chance to be involved as Jermaine Chau delighted everyone with a very sultry Habanera performed amongst the guests and Soonki had people clapping along with his stirring Toreador’s Song. Corinne Parker stunned us all with her beautiful rendition of Rusalka’s Song to the Moon, Stephanie’s Poor Wandering One left everyone gasping at her vocal gymnastics and Stephanie and Jonathan’s playful Papageno/Papagena Duet from The Magic Flute was captivating. The Cabaret also showcased highlights from our 2015 productions of Trial by Jury and The Marriage of Figaro and judging by the applause, all goes well for these two productions in May and November. We were thrilled that our new Patron, Daniel Sumegi was able to attend our evening performance and lend his support to our 2015 program. It is close to 30 years since Daniel last appeared at Rockdale Town Hall and he was amazed at the beautiful refurbishment of the building and extremely impressed with the quality of the Cabaret performers. A big thank you to everyone who attended Orlofsky’s Cabaret! It is clear that you loved the relaxed Cabaret format - of sitting at tables with friends, a glass of wine and something to nibble on, whilst enjoying a sampler of the beautiful music Rockdale Opera has to offer. Rest assured, we will be doing it all again next year! CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR RAFFLE WINNERS!!
1st prize - 2 A Reserve tickets to Opera Australia's Winter Season - Lynda Cabeldu 2nd Prize - Still Life painting by Don Ezard - Suzanne Shipard 3rd prize - Jewellery valued at $400 from Duvall Jewellery - James Carter |
MORE CABARET PHOTOS HERE!
|
A stellar line-up of soloists
Soonki Park, Jermaine Chau, Corinne Parker, Daniel Sloman, Megan Chalmers, Stephanie Jennifer Poropat, Jonathan Chan
and members of the Rockdale Opera chorus. Musical Director - Ingrid Sakurovs
Soonki Park, Jermaine Chau, Corinne Parker, Daniel Sloman, Megan Chalmers, Stephanie Jennifer Poropat, Jonathan Chan
and members of the Rockdale Opera chorus. Musical Director - Ingrid Sakurovs
Daniel Sumegi announced as our Patron!
DANIEL SUMEGI ANNOUNCED AS PATRON OF ROCKDALE OPERA COMPANY - 30th March 2015
We are delighted to announce that world famous bass-baritone Daniel Sumegi has agreed to be our Patron. “I am delighted to have been asked to be the Patron of Rockdale Opera Company" said Daniel. "As Australia’s oldest opera company, it has provided a much needed platform for young aspiring professionals to ‘tread the boards’ alongside the people that make up the bulk of the company - the true opera lovers. I made my solo debut at Rockdale 31 years ago as Fiorello in The Barber of Seville alongside the beautiful Deborah Riedel. Having then sung in four other productions with ROC in my early days, I moved out into the wider vocal world - where I have proudly been singing professionally since 1988”. “Rockdale Opera Company is very much a community organisation and has been generously supported by the Rockdale City Council for many generations. It is my sincere wish to help widen our profile and facilitate more engagement with other relevant performing arts bodies in Sydney and beyond. The word ‘Rockdale’ resonates so powerfully throughout the operatic family and I sincerely hope this invaluable cornerstone of our culture continues to flourish” Daniel said. Daniel has had a spectacular career, having sung some 100 Roles in opera houses all over the world, including New York’s Metropolitan Opera, the Paris Opera, Hamburg State Opera, Teatro Colon Buenos Aires and Tokyo’s New National Theatre. He has been a regular at Opera Australia since his debut there 20 years ago. Regarded as much for his acting as his voice, he has an extremely versatile repertoire, having encompassed the Baroque repertoire through to taking part in current World Premieres. Wagner and Strauss have been the major part of his musical diet, but he is no stranger to Beethoven, Mozart or Shostakovitch, among the many other composers whose music he has performed over the past 30 years. Last season Daniel Sumegi took part in Opera Australia’s first ever complete Ring Cycle, as Fasolt and Hagen, for which he was nominated for a 2014 Helpmann Award, and also performed for them as Sparafucile in Rigoletto and Prince Gremin in Eugene Onegin. He returned to Los Angeles Opera for Billy Budd, as Mr Flint, and recently completed engagements for West Australian Opera, as Sarastro in Magic Flute and West Australian Symphony Orchestra as soloist in programs of Brahms’ Four Serious Songs and Rossini’s Stabat Mater. He also portrayed the role of Death in Emperor of Atlantis for Lost and Found Opera. In August 2014 he made his role and company debut in concert with Victorian Opera, as Oroveso in Norma, before making his Hong Kong Opera debut as Jokanaan in Salome. In 2015 Daniel Sumegi will take part in the world premiere of The Manchurian Candidate for Minnesota Opera from the same team that created the Pulitzer Prize winning Silent Night. He will also return to Opera Australia for Sarastro in Julie Taymor’s award winning Magic Flute as well as the Grand Inquisitor in Elijah Moshinsky’s sumptuous production of Don Carlo. Rockdale Opera Company’s artistic director Ralph Bott said “we are honored to have one of Australia’s most successful opera singers agree to be our patron, this is a real coup for our company”. |
|
Amazing prizes to be won!
The raffle will be drawn at the evening performance of Rendezvous at Orlofsky's Cabaret, Rockdale Town Hall on 18th April 2015.
Winners will be announced on the night, notified by phone and listed on ROC's website.
Winners will be announced on the night, notified by phone and listed on ROC's website.
|
2 "A RESERVE" tickets to an OPERA AUSTRALIA PERFORMANCE!
(from OA's 2015 Winter Season - see below) 
|
STILL LIFE BY DON EZARD
Original still life painting by renowned artist Don Ezard.
After first studying Painting and Composition at East Sydney Tech, Don gained employment in the Animation Industry. It was a job that continued throughout his working life. Moving into the digital Film world of 3D animation, Don was Designing and animating on big budget movies such as Moulin Rouge, Australia, Legend of the Guardians and the Academy Award winning, Happy Feet for which he was Main Character Designer and Animation Supervisor. Don works now as a Children's Book illustrator and his passion for theatre continues as resident Set Designer for his local Theatre group in the Southern Highlands where he now lives. A member of the Bowral District Art Society, Don continues to paint and exhibit in many Art Shows around the State. |
ALSO!
Jewellery to the value of $300, generously donated by Duval Jewellery Manufacturing - Shop 9, 31 Market Street, St Martins Towers, Sydney, Ph 9261 1212
Jewellery to the value of $300, generously donated by Duval Jewellery Manufacturing - Shop 9, 31 Market Street, St Martins Towers, Sydney, Ph 9261 1212
|
ANNOUNCING OUR 2015 SEASON!
In May we are presenting Burnand and Sullivan’s “Cox and Box” and Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Trial by Jury.” This double-bill has not been performed at Rockdale since 1962! Director Jon Smith May 30th & 31st June 6th & 7th Rockdale Town Hall In November we are proud to present (for the first time ever!) Mozart’s classic “upstairs, downstairs” comedy “The Marriage of Figaro”. Musical Director Steven Stanke and Director Paulo Montoya. November 7th, 8th, 14th & 15th at Rockdale Town Hall |
SPECIAL 2015 SEASON TICKET OFFER !
Purchase tickets for both 2015 productions in a single transaction to receive 10% discount on the price Tickets available HERE
|
