Northiam Conservation Society delighted local residents yet again by organising a fifth concert of opera music on Valentine’s Day, held in the imposing venue of the Great Hall at Great Dixter. Guests were welcomed with sparkling wine and pretty gold bags decorated with hearts containing Belgian chocolates.
The three returning singers were Thomasin Trezise (soprano), Paul Hopwood (tenor), and Philip Smith (baritone), all who regularly perform at Glyndebourne, the Royal Opera House and other prestigious venues.
The programme for the afternoon had a marked romantic Valentine’s Day theme, and the audience were entertained in the first half with popular arias, duets and trios from operas such as Don Giovanni, Figaro, La Traviata, Madam Butterfly and Tosca.
The first half climaxed with a wonderful performance of the duet from Madam Butterfly sung by Thomasin and Paul.
The second half started with music from the Barber of Seville and Carmen and finally with the duet from the Pearl Fishers sung by Paul and Philip.
This classical session was followed by several popular numbers from various shows, again with a love theme, and the audience joined Thomasin in singing “I could have danced all night” from My Fair Lady.
The afternoon ended with all the ladies being presented with a red rose. Northiam Conservation Society are already planning the next concert which will be held on Saturday December 17, with a Christmas theme.
Photo: Conrad Freezer