Events

Opera Works presents a new version on C.W. Gluck’s opera, Orpheus created by conductor / composer John O’Brien and playright Declan Hassett.

A celebration of young talent, the production will feature the Cork Children’s Chorus, exciting new discovery nineteen year old Benjamin Russell in the title role, while Euridice, normally a soprano, will be performed by young Irish Ballet sensation, Jane Magan.

This young cast will be supported by an artistic team of leading professionals, including renowned Mezzo-soprano Sonya Keogh as Voice Coach.

A ten month process began in January as the members of Cork Children’s Chorus learnt to sing the music at weekly rehearsals every Saturday morning, while workshops in Design, Art and Mythology were held during the Easter and summer holidays to creatively explore the work.

Inspired by the ideas of the Cork Children’s Chorus, the opera will also explore the use of virtual sounds and images. The combination of live musicians, with an electronic soundscape designed by Hugh McCarthy, will create a new musical accompaniment to the opera.

At the same time, the children’s drawings will become the inspiration for virtual sets created by projection and lighting technology, designed by Michael Hurley, with costumes by Jessica Healy.

Jillian Keiley from Newfoundland, Canada will direct. Jillian has recently worked with Shallaway (formerly the Newfoundland Youth Symphony Chorus) on their new opera Ann & Seamus. Susan Knight, Founder and Artistic Director of Shallaway has said “Jillian is absolutely marvelous - a young genius, really – with a fresh and totally original approach, and a delightful way of working with young people. I am delighted you have decided to work with her. You will be very pleased.”

Tickets are available from:

Cork Opera House box office on 021 427 0022

Online at www.corkoperahouse.ie

Orpheus is supported by Cork City Council and the Ireland Newfoundland Partnership