One of the world’s greatest opera singers, tenor Plácido Domingo, has accepted an invitation to become patron of New Zealand’s latest opera company, Southern Opera.
The new Christchurch-based company, founded earlier this year by former New Zealand opera star Christopher Doig, is “ecstatic” that Domingo has agreed to take the position.
“He is one of the best known, loved and listened to international opera singers of our age, and we are absolutely delighted that he has agreed to become our patron,” says Mr Doig.
“It is a huge honour for us. We see his acceptance as another important milestone for the new company. Knowing he is prepared to support us in this way is a great boost and typifies the generous spirit of a man who has become a leader in all aspects of opera, as singer, conductor and administrator.”
Domingo, known worldwide as “The King of Opera” has a repertoire of 123 roles covering all the important parts in Italian and French operas. He is currently General Director of both the Washington National Opera and the Los Angeles Opera.
Southern Opera is preparing for its first major production, Bizet’s “Carmen.” Starting on October 4, it will have a six-performance season in the Isaac Theatre Royal in Christchurch. The title role will be sung by Rinat Shaham, a young Israeli soprano already internationally acclaimed in the role.
Experienced American tenor Vinson Cole will sing Don José, and the other leads will be taken by New Zealand international opera star Suzanne Prain and rising Australian star, bass baritone Joshua Bloom.
Elric Hooper, formerly Artistic Director of the Court Theatre, will direct the production, and Brian Law will be music director conducting the Christchurch Symphony.
“We don’t believe Plácido Domingo will be able to attend our opening season, but we are very hopeful that he will be here to see some of our subsequent performances,” says Mr Doig.
“We’d love to be able to welcome him to the South Island and show him the quality of work we are capable of performing. We’re already looking forward to this opportunity at some stage.”
Southern Opera intends to present one major production each year, as well as one smaller work, which will be toured to major centres throughout the South Island and also be available for events such as corporate dinners and conferences.
For more information please contact Christopher Doig on 027 488 5011 or Gina Boaks, Administrator Southern Opera, on 03 363 3131.