Verdi’s classic tale of love and loss comes to Rye Creative Centre on Saturday June 29, with local performers joining the professional cast in a production of La Traviata. Barefoot Opera return to Rye after last year’s sell out concert, and this time they’ll be joined by members of the Marsh Choir.
The Marsh Choir, which meets at the Creative Centre each Thursday at 7pm, will be taking part in the Overture and Act One of La Traviata alongside the professional cast. Carly Bryant from the Marsh Choir says it’s a big endorsement for her singers. “People join Marsh Choir for many different reasons; for friendship, for learning, to feel good. But for me and for them there’s a beautiful consequence of hours of practice over the years – they become better singers. For my members now to have the confidence and desire to take part in a professional opera is exciting and an honour.”
The Rye concert is part of a 12-day tour for Barefoot Opera, who’re based in St Leonards. Producer Anthony Flaum says he is excited to give the hugely popular opera a modern day spin. “It’s a riveting and devastating love story. It’s plot has inspired Hollywood movies from Pretty Woman to Moulin Rouge, whilst the beautiful melodies have been the soundtrack to countless TV commercials. Taking in themes of scandal, hypocrisy and toxic masculinity, the opera is no doubt as relevant today as it ever was. This opera grabbed hold of its audiences when it was written in 1853 … and has never let go.”
Barefoot Opera was founded in 2011 to produce high-quality, inclusive performances, train emerging young professionals, and engage new audiences and participants. Artistic Director Jenny Miller can’t wait to bring the show to Rye – and to work with the Marsh Choir. “Our incredible cast of established and up-and-coming singers will thrill opera fans and newcomers alike. It’s fundamental to Barefoot Opera that we immerse people in our productions, as actors, as singers … and of course, the audience. We’re aiming for the entire show – the performers, our participants, the Barefoot Band, the staging and costume – to bring people more closely into the experience of opera.”
Tickets are £22.50, children under 15 go free with an accompanying adult.
Performance starts: 19:30 Entrance from 18:45.
BOOK HERE: https://barefootopera.com/shop/la-traviata-rye-creative-centre/
Image Credits: Barefoot Opera .