The Elixir of Love – 2008
Think you don’t like opera? Try this then
‘As frothy as a freshly-made cappuccino, as bright as a button on love rival Sergeant Belcore’s tunic and light and crisp as a chilled Frascati, this is opera for all.’
‘... I doubt you will ever see a better amateur production of a work that is a perfect introduction for opera newcomers.’
‘All are in fine voice and backed by what seems a larger than usual but equally harmonic chorus for a company that carries you along, delighting, charming and entertaining on the way.’
‘If you think opera is not for you, try this one with an open mind and it might shatter one or two illusions. It’s funny, melodic, happy and if you still have doubts it’s not too long.’
Mitch Irving, April 2008, Hinckley Times
Carmen – 2007
As I see it ...
‘... the production takes on a life and a momentum of its own that is more than just the sum of the cast’s individual contributions.’
‘... the performance reaches right across the stage into the auditorium and sends the audience home from the Theatre on a high’
‘a mesmeric performance from the cast that went beyond excellence and made everyone present in the theatre appreciate what a very special evening they had been part of.’
John Gibbon, May 2007, HCA Newsletter
The Marriage of Figaro – 2006
Catching Bouquets
‘Musical director Janet Ward may gather one or two single blooms from the principals at curtain call but all involved in this marvellous production should be catching bouquets.’
‘unmatched in quality of presentation.’
‘Felicity Clarke, a petite and nimble Cherubino, commands attention at every appearance.’
‘If you ever thought opera was not for you, this could change your mind. It is funny, has tunes you will recognise and is brilliantly executed. What are you waiting for? Grab a ticket and have a great fun evening.’
Mitch Irving, April 2006, Hinckley Times
Cavalleria Rusticana & I Pagliacci – 2005
Bravo Bacon!
‘Stanley Opera should save their Bacon because he has certainly rescued them. Since he has arrived as director in 2003 Nick Bacon has transformed the group and pointed it onwards and ever upwards.’
‘It would be a mistake to attribute the improvement to single-handed heroics but the change in a group so admirably amateur but really going nowhere can be traced to his introduction in 2003, what he has done for the surviving stalwarts who kept it going and the impressive newcomers he has attracted.’
‘a forceful, passionate and dramatic performance of the pieces Bacon himself refers to as ‘Opera’s Blood Brothers’ in the equally superb programme – another professional-type improvement he has made.’
‘(Andrew) Robinson, so powerful and intimidating that if he says it’s Sunday that’s what it is.’
‘Bravo Stanley Opera, another great chance to see quality opera on our doorstep.’
Mitch Irving, Thursday April 7 2005, Hinckley Times
Faust – 2004
Fiery Fate for Lovers
‘A flame haired heroine, burning passions and a fiery fate were matched in a glowing production by Stanley Opera ’
‘... reached a red hot climax with the lovers facing their different fates in a brilliant trio aria ’
‘the company ranks among the best.’
‘Everything about the production, down to the highly readable programme - a lesson here for other companies - exudes class nowadays.’
‘first class and opera lovers will look forward to next years show and the chance to see excellence at a price all can afford.’
Mitch Irving, Thursday April 15 2004, Hinckley Times
Aida – 2003
Operatic Triumph Sees Off Sceptics
‘a masterful performance that will enhance the reputation of the company and the town theatre, but Stanley have set themselves a mighty benchmark now – after all how do you top Aida?’
‘Louise Clarke and Janet Cunnew — each in their own vocal way, punched her weight brilliantly’
‘Splendid sets, great direction by Nick Bacon, this was a night to remember.’
Mitch Irving, Thursday April 10 2003, Hinckley Times