Northiam Conservation Society delighted local residents by organising a fourth evening of opera, held in the beautiful surrounding of the Music Room at Brickwall House. These events have become so popular that this year’s Christmas performance had to be held on two evenings.
Another innovation was the addition of a third singer, with the regular soprano and tenor being supported this time by a baritone. Guests were welcomed with sparkling wine and Belgian chocolates.
The two returning singers were Thomasin Trezise, soprano, and Paul Hopwood, tenor, both of whom regularly perform at Glyndebourne and other prestigious venues. Philip Smith, baritone, was welcomed to Northiam for the first time. He also has performed at Glyndebourne and the Royal Opera House.
The programme for the evening had a Christmas theme, although the audience were entertained in the first half with popular arias, duets and trios from operas such as Don Giovanni, Figaro, the Barber of Seville and Tosca. The first half climaxed with a wonderful performance of the duet from the Pearl Fishers sung by Paul and Philip.
The second half started with more music from La Traviata and Carmen and was then followed by a selection from the musicals. The evening concluded with Christmas carols, with enthusiastic audience participation.
Photo: Mervyn Hayes