Opera picnic returns to Matakana after covid break

Music lovers should head to Matakana next month for the return of Auckland Opera Studio’s annual summer picnic concert. After a break caused by covid restrictions last year, singers are looking forward to returning to the picturesque gardens of Simon and Robin Barclay’s home on the corner of Ward and Matakana Valley Roads.

The programme will again feature a diverse selection of operatic classics and popular musical favourites curated by musical director Frances Wilson, all performed on a stage set on the side of a lake and surrounded by a naturally banked seating area.

This year’s line-up includes opera picnic favourites such as sopranos Amelia Berry and Tayla Alexander, and three members of popular Pasifika quartet The Shades, Samson Setu, Manase Latu and Ipu Laga’aia.

Making their Matakana debut will be Maltese-born soprano Carla Camillari,

Norwegian baritone Thomas Roshol, young tenor Sid Chand and Hawkes Bay baritone Alfred Fonoti-Fuimoano.

Accompanying them all will be renowned pianist Somi Kim, who plays with NZ Trio, the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra and the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, among many others.

Auckland Opera Studio is a charity that provides personalised coaching, professional support and performance opportunities for young opera singers.

The Matakana Opera Picnic takes place on Saturday, February 18 at 5.30pm and runs until around 8.30pm. Free parking is available from 4.30pm and concertgoers should bring their own food, drink and picnic seating.

Tickets cost $60 for adults and can be booked via the Auckland Opera Studio website at www.aucklandoperastudio. co.nz. There is no charge for children aged under 16.