About Us

Who are we?

Southern Opera was founded in early 2007, just months after its predecessor, Canterbury Opera went into liquidation following a 20-year history. With Canterbury audiences used to twice-yearly seasons of opera, it was inevitable that Southern Opera had to be born.

The need to provide our opera audience with regular access and enjoyment of the art and the desire to provide work for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, South Island singers, local arts practitioners including set builders, repetiteurs, designers and directors, were all driving factors in the decision to establish a new opera company.

We very much look forward to welcoming your patronage of the company and enjoying your support at our events in the future.

Southern Opera Management Team

 Chief Executive Officer John Bartlett
DDI: 03 378 3730
john@southernopera.com

Gina Boaks Administrator Gina Boaks
DDI: 03 378 3736
gina@southernopera.com

Donna Alley Marketing Executive Donna Alley
DDI: 03 378 3734
donna@southernopera.com

Production Manager Rob Peters

Southern Opera Charitable Trust
Trustees
Christopher Doig
Kate Burtt
Lew Brown