15 Dec ‘Donate as you feel’ online opera hits all the right notes this Christmas
Sheffield-based singing sensations Opera on Location has announced they are set to stream a free, animated performance of Cinderella this December.
The newly registered charity has dazzled audiences in Sheffield with accessible and affordable opera since 2013, with unique performances set in unusual places ranging from the Winter Garden and Kelham Island Museum to Eagle Works and most recently Waterstones, back in 2019.
Sadly, due the current restrictions on performances and gatherings, it has not been possible for them to take their usual approach when programming events this year, so they have taken the opportunity to bring opera to the masses online over the festive period.
Their Christmas offering will be streamed on the company’s new website and is a retelling of the much-loved classic Cinderella, written by French composer Pauline Viardot in 1904.
When asked about the project and the impact of COVID-19, company co-Artistic Director Kathryn Gasic said: “We’re really excited to share Cinderella with the world and spread some free, festive cheer.
“It’s been wonderful for us to have been able to provide some much-needed work for freelance singers and creatives in what has been a very difficult year for them.”
Opera on Location’s animated reimagining of the renowned folk story will combine projection, shadow puppetry and stop motion animation with a cast of professional singers to bring the story to life.
The line-up includes Director and Musical Director duo Ashley Pearson and Juliane Gallant (Don Giovanni and La traviata) alongside Sheffield favourites Andrea Tweedale, Chloe Saywell and Matthew Palmer.
Sung in English and at just an hour long, it is the perfect festive treat for all ages. The performance will be available from Thursday 17th December.
A family friendly version will premiere on Saturday 19th December at 11am. Complete with introduction, story recaps, actions and suggested activities from Sheffield-based concert presenter Polly Ives, to help younger children engage with the story.
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