SEASON 2017 | 18
A huge thank you to all our business sponsors and corporate members:
Thanks also to our corporate donors and in-kind sponsors: Caledonian MacBrayne, Cameron Presentations, Dakota Deluxe, Eusebi Deli, Frasers Garden Centre Dundonald, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Great Grog, Highland Office Equipment, La Bonne Auberge, M¡A¡C and 21 Colour.
Scottish Opera
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We pride ourselves on taking opera the length and breadth of Scotland – travelling by land, air and sea to highlands, lowlands, cities and islands, from the smallest village halls to theatres, community centres and everything in between. We couldn’t do this without support from all sorts of people and organisations, who give what they can to help us do what we do best.
Thank you, each and every one of you.
1. Aberdeen 2. Ardrossan 3. Arisaig 4. Ballachulish 5. Benderloch 6. Bowmore 7. Braemar 8. Callander 9. Campbeltown 10. Carrbridge 11. Castle Douglas 12. Cove 13. East Kilbride 14. Edinburgh 15. Findhorn 16. Girvan 17. Glasgow 18. Greenock 19. Haddington 20. Halkirk 21. Hawick 22. Inverness 23. Kirkwall 24. Langholm 25. Largs 26. Lerwick 27. Livingston 28. Lochinver 29. Markinch 30. Midmar 31. Montrose 32. Musselburgh 33. Paisley 34. Peebles 35. Perth 36. Peterhead 37. Pitlochry 38. Port Bannatyne 39. Portavadie 40. Portree 41. Prestwick 42. Rhu 43. Rothesay 44. Rutherglen 45. Stornoway 46. Stranraer 47. Tain 48. Troon 1
Welcome to Scottish Opera’s 2017 | 18 Season This may be one of the most distinctive seasons we’ve brought to audiences in recent years, simply because of the sheer range and diversity of performances it offers. From beloved classics to brand-new works; from operatic stage to the deck of a boat and a ‘circus’ tent; with performances specially created for babies and for those living with dementia; and visits to 48 venues from Stranraer to Shetland, there is, quite literally, something for everyone. The operas hopefully speak for themselves through the pages of this brochure, but we are particularly excited to open the Season with a revival of Sir David McVicar’s La traviata, including a performance on the 150th anniversary of the opening of Theatre Royal Glasgow. This is followed by productions of Jonathan Dove’s Flight, Richard Strauss’s Ariadne auf Naxos, Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin, Mark-Anthony Turnage’s Greek, Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci and a new opera for babies, BambinO. We are excited to build on the great success of The Sunday Series: Opera in Concert. Taking our new production of Eugene Onegin as inspiration, we have curated a series which celebrates the Russian greats. It also sees us working ever more closely with students from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and the National Opera Studio. It is a privilege both to invite these young stars-in-the-making to work with Scottish Opera and to welcome all the brilliant singers, from near and far, who will perform in our productions. As well as our performances and education work year-round, we are thrilled to perform at some of the world’s finest arts festivals. BambinO opens at the Manchester International Festival before moving on to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and to Glasgow. Meanwhile, in a new coproduction with Opera Ventures, we present Greek at the Edinburgh International Festival as part of its 70th anniversary celebrations. We hope that you find much to enjoy in our forthcoming Season. We quite simply could not do what we do without the enthusiasm and loyalty of our audiences, the generosity of our supporters and the invaluable funding we receive from the Scottish Government – our heartfelt thanks to you all. Stuart Stratford Music Director
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Alex Reedijk General Director
DON’T MISS OUT – SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE! Save up to £66 • Book for the four operas in our Subscription Series at either Theatre Royal Glasgow or Festival Theatre Edinburgh and save up to £66. • Book for both La traviata and Eugene Onegin at His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen or Eden Court, Inverness and save up to £18.
Get further discounts This year, subscribers can save even more by booking in advance for Greek and The Sunday Series in Glasgow – simply book before 1 May 2017 for an exclusive discount.
Secure the best seats in the house Book your tickets in advance of general public sales and secure some of the best seats available. Subscribers are the first to receive new season information and have a priority booking period before tickets go on general sale.
Spread the cost Buy your subscription before 17 July 2017 and you can spread the cost by paying by Direct Debit over 6 months.
Free seat upgrades If an upgrade is available on the day of performance, we will exchange your ticket for a better one.* Ask at the box office counter 1 hour before the start of a performance until 30 minutes before curtain up.
Free ticket exchanges Don’t worry if a date you have picked no longer suits. As long as we have a seat available in the venue for which you originally booked, you can exchange your tickets up to 24 hours before a performance. If your replacement tickets are of a higher value, we will let you know the cost. For further information, please contact your local box office. *Please note upgrades are subject to availability. If a seat in a higher price band is not available, we will not be able to offer you an upgrade.
GET IN ON THE DEAL! If you’re under 26, or you know someone who is, make sure you’re making the most of it. Under 26s can get £10 tickets in advance for most of our shows. Any seat, any performance. Call your local box office to book.
Verdi
LA TRAVIATA
Revival of the 2008 co-production with Welsh National Opera, Gran Teatre del Liceu & Teatro Real, Madrid
HHHHH The Guardian
Subscription 17 | 18
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The Scotsman
Passionate, flamboyant, gripping: Sir David McVicar’s La traviata has been in high demand worldwide since its Scottish Opera premiere in 2008. Set in the demi-monde of 1880s Paris, this stunning show is designed with sumptuous period style by Tanya McCallin. With his characteristic eye for detail, McVicar’s production gets to the core of Violetta and Alfredo’s doomed love affair – finding a heartbreakingly human story in the midst of a hedonistic world where both the rich and the wretched have their fun.
‘There are moments in many Traviatas when losing yourself in the music is the only option, because the plot doesn’t seem worthy of attention. Not here: this is a storytelling that captivates just as much as the score.’ The Herald 2008 Verdi’s magnificent score sweeps the characters through their every shifting mood – from the wildly dramatic to the most tender of moments. Russian-Dutch soprano Gulnara Shafigullina, recently Violetta at the Mariinsky, and Anush Hovhannisyan, representing Armenia at Cardiff Singer of the World 2017, head a cast of international talent also including multi-award-winning Dutch tenor Peter Gijsbertsen and British baritone Stephen Gadd (Le Villi 2017). David Parry (Carmen 2016) conducts.
Conductors David Parry & Dane Lam (7, 23, 28, 30 Nov) Original Director Sir David McVicar Revival Director Marie Lambert Set & Costume Designer Tanya McCallin Original Lighting Designer Jennifer Tipton Original Choreographer Andrew George
Violetta Valéry Gulnara Shafigullina & Anush Hovhannisyan (28 Oct, 7, 23, 28 Nov) Alfredo Germont Peter Gijsbertsen Giorgio Germont Stephen Gadd Flora Bervoix Laura Zigmantaite* Baron Douphol Simon Thorpe Gastone Christopher Turner Marchese D’Obigny Alex Otterburn* Doctor Grenvil James Platt Annina Catherine Backhouse* *Scottish Opera Emerging Artist (See page 28 for more information)
Theatre Royal Glasgow 19 • 25 • 28 Oct | 28† • 30 Nov | 2 Dec 7.15pm 22 Oct 3pm Dementia Friendly Performance 24 Oct 3pm (see page 31) His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen 2 • 4 Nov 7.15pm Eden Court, Inverness 7 • 9 • 11 Nov 7.15pm Festival Theatre Edinburgh 15 • 21 • 23 • 25 Nov 7.15pm 19 Nov 3pm Dementia Friendly Performance 17 Nov 3pm (see page 31) Running time approx. 2 hrs 55 mins † 150th anniversary of the opening
of Theatre Royal Glasgow
Sung in Italian with English supertitles
Original production supported by Dunard Fund
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Jonathan Dove
FLIGHT
Production originates from Investec Opera Holland Park
Subscription 17 | 18
Supported by Dunard Fund
Jonathan Dove’s life-affirming comedy flies north for its Scottish premiere. This unanimously acclaimed production is reimagined by director Stephen Barlow and the 2015 creative team with all the feel-good flair that garnered them rave reviews. Inspired by the story of a refugee who was stranded for years in Paris Charles de Gaulle, Flight tells the tale of a group of total strangers stuck in an airport during an electrical storm. Thrown together, their lives and relationships soon start to unravel but then some surprising alliances are formed, and some unexpected discoveries made…
Theatre Royal Glasgow 17 • 21 • 24 Feb 7.15pm
‘Flight is that most rare bird – a modern opera that tingles with melody and optimism from the get-go and reminds us that, although turbulence inevitably lies ahead, ultimately the future is shining.’ Stephen Barlow
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Festival Theatre Edinburgh 1 • 3 Mar 7.15pm Running time approx. 2 hrs 30 mins
The Times
HHHH The Guardian
Dove’s vividly inventive score channels a wide range of influences into his own distinctive style – from the fast-paced brilliance of Rossini to Mozart, Ravel and Bernstein. The superb ensemble cast includes Jennifer France (Ariodante 2016), Victoria Simmonds and James Laing, all reprising their highly-praised roles from the Opera Holland Park production, Stephanie Corley (Inés de Castro 2015), Graeme Broadbent and Marie McLaughlin (The Marriage of Figaro 2016). Music Director Stuart Stratford conducts.
Conductor Stuart Stratford Director Stephen Barlow Set & Costume Designer Andrew Riley Lighting Designer Richard Howell Projection Designer Jack Henry James Movement Director Sam Spencer Lane
Refugee James Laing Controller Jennifer France Bill Peter Auty Tina Stephanie Corley Older Woman Marie McLaughlin Stewardess Sioned Gwen Davies Steward Jonathan McGovern Minskman Stephen Gadd Minskwoman Victoria Simmonds Immigration Officer Graeme Broadbent
Sung in English with English supertitles
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R. Strauss
ARIADNE AUF NAXOS
A new co-production with Investec Opera Holland Park
Subscription 17 | 18
Supported by The Scottish Opera Syndicate
Following his five-star Rusalka in 2016, director and designer Antony McDonald is back with a new production. In a large country house, two troupes of performers collide in an unfortunate double booking. Opera comes up against burlesque, and high ideals against a more ‘carefree’ approach… This playful opera is bursting with life and McDonald’s production promises plenty of style – and plenty of fun.
‘The beauty of Ariadne is that all art, either ‘high’ or ‘low’ – if you hold with that division at all – contains both tragedy and comedy. Ariadne’s themes are universal: two approaches not just to art but to life itself.’ Antony McDonald
Theatre Royal Glasgow 22 • 24 • 28 Mar 7.15pm Festival Theatre Edinburgh 5 • 7 Apr 7.15pm Running time approx. 2 hrs 40 mins
Strauss’s sublime score flits between catchy comic turns, virtuosic coloratura and free-flowing lyricism. The international cast includes American soprano Mardi Byers, making her first appearance in the UK, Dutch tenor Kor-Jan Dusseljee and rising star and Jette Parker Young Artist Emily Edmonds. British opera legend Sir Thomas Allen is the Music Master and Jamie MacDougall is the Dancing Master. Brad Cohen, Music Director of Western Australia Opera, conducts.
Conductor Brad Cohen Director & Designer Antony McDonald Lighting Designer Wolfgang Göbbel Movement Director Lucy Burge
Prima Donna/Ariadne Mardi Byers Tenor/Bacchus Kor-Jan Dusseljee Composer Emily Edmonds Zerbinetta Jennifer France Music Master Sir Thomas Allen Dancing Master Jamie MacDougall & Alasdair Elliott (7 Apr) Scaramuccio Daniel Norman Harlequin Alex Otterburn* Truffaldino John Molloy Naiad Elizabeth Cragg Echo Lucy Hall Dryad Laura Zigmantaite*
Prologue sung in English Opera sung in German with English supertitles
*Scottish Opera Emerging Artist (See page 28 for more information) 9
Tchaikovsky
EUGENE ONEGIN
New production
Subscription 17 | 18
Supported by The Alexander Gibson Circle
Tchaikovsky and Pushkin: two of Russia’s greatest artists come together in this sweeping tale of unfulfilled love. A lovesick young girl; a cocky young man who thoughtlessly spurns her; a heart-stopping duel between should-be friends. Director Oliver Mears (Director of Opera, The Royal Opera) teams up with award-winning designer Annemarie Woods, setting this hopelessly romantic opera in a world full of memories and dreams, where the past is ever present.
‘Onegin has everything: breathtaking music, heartrending poetry, and the drama of passionate characters who live and breathe as we do. Like an apparition from the past, once heard this beautiful opera haunts our dreams.’ Oliver Mears
Theatre Royal Glasgow 27 Apr | 3 • 5 May 7.15pm 29 Apr 3pm His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen 10 • 12 May 7.15pm Eden Court, Inverness 15 • 17 • 19 May 7.15pm Festival Theatre Edinburgh 23 • 26 • 29 • 31 May 7.15pm Running time approx. 2 hrs 50 mins
Tchaikovsky’s soaring score, not heard on Scottish Opera’s main stage since 1993, is the most radiant of Russian lyric operas. Dramatic and expressive, it captures perfectly the desperation and raw emotion of Pushkin’s masterpiece. Natalya Romaniw (Rusalka 2016), fast making a name for herself in the Russian repertoire, sings Tatyana. Samuel Dale Johnson (The Marriage of Figaro 2016) is Onegin. Music Director Stuart Stratford conducts.
Conductor Stuart Stratford Director Oliver Mears Set & Costume Designer Annemarie Woods Lighting Designer Fabiana Piccioli Choreographer Ashley Page
Eugene Onegin Samuel Dale Johnson Tatyana Natalya Romaniw Lensky Peter Auty Olga Sioned Gwen Davies Madame Larina Alison Kettlewell Filipyevna Anne-Marie Owens Prince Gremin Graeme Broadbent Monsieur Triquet Christopher Gillett Zaretsky James Platt
Sung in Russian with English supertitles
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Mark-Anthony Turnage
GREEK
A new Scottish Opera and Opera Ventures co-production Co-presented with Edinburgh International Festival
Contemporary Opera
Based on the play by Steven Berkoff
This new co-production with Opera Ventures is directed by brilliantly inventive Young Vic Artistic Associate Joe Hill-Gibbins, working with acclaimed designer Johannes Schütz. A modern re-telling of the Oedipus myth, Turnage’s anarchic, provocative opera exposes the seedy world of Eddy and his family. Stuck in a rut, Eddy longs for more. When he is told of a prophecy that he will kill his father and bed his mother he is appalled, leaving home to seek a different life. But can he escape the plague that is coming, or is he, in fact, the source?
‘I love Greek. It’s punky and irreverent, but beautiful and lyrical too. And it has an amazing contemporary resonance. Its air of discontent – of a black cloud hanging over society – really chimes with us today.’ Joe Hill-Gibbins
Festival Theatre Edinburgh Part of Edinburgh International Festival 5 Aug 7.15pm 6 Aug 5pm Theatre Royal Glasgow 2 • 3 Feb 7.15pm Running time approx. 2 hrs
Swinging between urban angst and lyrical tenderness, Turnage’s score is an audacious blend of influences – from the jazz of Miles Davis to the football chants of the terraces – held together with his signature rhythmic energy. The world-class cast includes a wealth of British talent; Susan Bullock, Allison Cook and Andrew Shore perform alongside name-to-watch Alex Otterburn, winner of an International Opera Award bursary and one of Scottish Opera’s Emerging Artists for 2017/18. Music Director Stuart Stratford conducts.
Conductors Stuart Stratford & Finnegan Downie Dear (3 Feb) Director Joe Hill-Gibbins Set Designer Johannes Schütz Costume Designer Alex Lowde Lighting Designer Matthew Richardson Movement Director Jenny Ogilvie Dramaturg Caroline Steinbeis
Eddy Alex Otterburn* Eddy’s Mum/Waitress/Sphinx Susan Bullock Eddy’s Sister/Waitress later Eddy’s Wife/Sphinx Allison Cook Eddy’s Dad/Café Manager/Chief of Police Andrew Shore & Henry Waddington (2, 3 Feb)
Sung in English with English supertitles
*Scottish Opera Emerging Artist (See page 28 for more information)
This production has been made possible with generous support from Sarah Billinghurst and Howard Solomon, Alistair and Elizabeth Storey, and Denise Coates Foundation. With additional support from the KT Wong Foundation and the Boltini Trust.
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Leoncavallo
PAGLIACCI THE CLOWNS
New production
Experience opera through a different lens – in an all-encompassing spectacular that puts you right in the middle of the action. A wretched clown, miserable in making others laugh; a devastating rejection from the woman he loves… Bill Bankes-Jones directs a company of nearly 200 – including The Orchestra of Scottish Opera, a cast of international soloists, a professional and community chorus, and both professional and amateur circus performers – in this blood and guts tale of love and jealousy.
Promenade Opera
Greater Glasgow June 2018 Running time approx. 1 hr 30 mins
‘Sometimes the best place to perform a piece is outside the theatre. An opera like Pagliacci is crying out for a different approach – I can’t think of a better way to present it, and to capture its energy, than with hundreds of performers from all walks of life.’ Stuart Stratford Specially created to be staged outwith the walls of our usual theatre venues, promenade-style in a ‘circus’ tent, Pagliacci is set to become an event to remember. Leoncavallo’s music, performed so often by Pavarotti, is packed with energy and pulses with passion. A showpiece for principals, chorus and orchestra alike, the score evokes the harsh romance of Calabrian life so effectively that it has become the soundtrack to a generation of ‘Mafioso’ films, including The Untouchables.
Conductor Stuart Stratford Director Bill Bankes-Jones
Sung in English
Want to get involved?
We’re looking for amateur singers and circus performers to be part of these performances in the Greater Glasgow area. No experience necessary. Rehearsals start Autumn 2017. Go to scottishopera.org.uk for details.
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THE SUNDAY SERIES: OPERA IN CONCERT Curated by Music Director Stuart Stratford, this year’s Sunday Series focuses on his love of, and expertise in, Russian music. These four concerts – three at Theatre Royal Glasgow and one at City Halls – feature several titles never before performed by the Company, and include the first-ever performance of Rachmaninov on the Scottish Opera stage and the Scottish premiere of his Francesca da Rimini.
TCHAIKOVSKY IOLANTA
Theatre Royal Glasgow | 29 Oct 3pm Originally premiered alongside The Nutcracker, Iolanta is rarely heard outside Russia. Part fairy tale, part parable, this beautifully affecting story tells of a young blind girl. Kept in seclusion, she is unaware of her condition, until love arrives and her eyes are – in every sense – opened. Tchaikovsky’s last opera is heartfelt and tender, but there are darker undertones that point directly towards the drama of his sixth, and final, symphony.
Conductor Stuart Stratford Soloists Alexey Dolgov, Alexey Gusev, Ashley Holland, Nadine Livingston, Anne-Marie Owens, James Platt, Gulnara Shafigullina, Alexei Tanovitski, Laura Zigmantaite* Running time approx. 1 hr 50 mins
PROKOFIEV THE FIERY ANGEL City Halls Glasgow | 3 Dec 3pm
In collaboration with the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Masochistic obsession, black magic, demons and exorcism – based on a novel by Bryusov, Prokofiev’s seething opera is considered his strongest and most dramatically intense score, full of rhythmic power and extraordinary vocal writing. Singers from the Conservatoire’s opera course and student players join professional soloists and The Orchestra of Scottish Opera. Conducted by Mikhail Agrest, resident for many years at the Mariinsky Theatre. 16
Conductor Mikhail Agrest Soloists Evez Abdulla, Dmitry Golovnin, Agnieszka Rehlis, Svetlana Sozdateleva, Alexei Tanovitski Running time approx. 2 hrs 25 mins *Scottish Opera Emerging Artist (See page 28 for more information)
NATIONAL OPERA STUDIO FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE Theatre Royal Glasgow | 25 Feb 3pm
Every year, Britain’s major opera companies host residencies for the London-based National Opera Studio – the UK’s leading training programme for young opera professionals. This Season is the Studio’s 40th anniversary and Scottish Opera is hosting a week-long residency for the young artists, culminating in a semi-staged performance featuring Russian-themed repertoire, accompanied by The Orchestra of Scottish Opera.
Conductor Stuart Stratford Running time approx. 2 hrs
RACHMANINOV ALEKO & FRANCESCA DA RIMINI Theatre Royal Glasgow | 6 May 3pm
Adapted from a poem by Pushkin, Aleko was Rachmaninov’s first opera. A blistering tale of gypsies, jealousy and violent revenge, the score draws heavily on Russian folk music, blended with his unique and melodic voice. It is paired with Francesca da Rimini, a story of love and death, sin and innocence. With a plot drawn from Dante’s Inferno, this little-known opera is one of tenderness underpinned by Rachmaninov’s unmistakably dark tone.
Conductor Stuart Stratford Soloists Oleg Dolgov, Ekaterina Goncharova, Gevorg Hakobyan, Anne-Marie Owens Running time approx. 2 hrs 30 mins
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OPERA HIGHLIGHTS
Supported by the Friends of Scottish Opera
Each year Opera Highlights takes four singers and a pianist out and about around Scotland, travelling the highways and byways, by land, air and sea, to take a musical mix of operatic treasures to some of the country’s smaller and more remote venues. This Season, the tour is visiting even more destinations, with dates in both Autumn and Spring. Come September, the minibus will be packed full of props and costumes to bring audiences an entertaining evening of music and good company. There’s something for everyone – from opera first timers to seasoned fans.
‘Amazing energy from all five performers – to be able to get that close to professional musicians and singers is a rare treat. Can’t wait for more!’ Audience member, 2016
This Season’s casts are full of fresh, new talent, including Scottish Opera Emerging Artist Catherine Backhouse, alongside graduates of the National Opera Studio, sopranos Lucy Hall (Orfeo ed Euridice 2015) and Máire Flavin (La Cenerentola 2014), and tenor William Morgan (The 8th Door 2017). Emerging Artist repetiteur Patrick Milne is at the piano in the Spring, and former Emerging Artist Jack Furness (Opera Highlights 2016) directs.
National Tour
AUTUMN 2017 21 Sep to 28 Oct Touring to Musselburgh, Markinch, Arisaig, Portree, Stornoway, Lochinver, Carrbridge, Findhorn, Cove, Peebles, Stranraer, Campbeltown, Bowmore, Benderloch, Langholm, Greenock & East Kilbride On sale Summer 2017 SPRING 2018 6 Feb to 10 Mar Touring to Livingston, Hawick, Callander, Midmar, Halkirk, Kirkwall, Tain, Braemar, Montrose, Lerwick, Castle Douglas, Ballachulish, Pitlochry & Rutherglen On sale Winter 2017 Running time approx. 2 hrs
Director Jack Furness Music Director/Pianist Patrick Milne* Casts include: Soprano Máire Flavin/Lucy Hall Mezzo-soprano Catherine Backhouse*/Kate Howden Tenor William Morgan Baritone Benjamin Lewis
*Scottish Opera Emerging Artist (See page 28 for more information) 19
Lliam Paterson
A first operatic adventure for 6 to 18 month olds
A new co-production with Manchester International Festival & Improbable
Family
Supported by Scottish Opera’s New Commissions Circle & Scottish Opera’s Education Angels
The long-awaited follow-up to the ground-breaking BabyO, BambinO is a brand-new piece of music theatre, again aimed at an audience that doesn’t often get a look-in at opera – babies. This unique and colourful work for infants aged 6 to 18 months reinvents operatic language and traditions for children at an age when their minds are wide open to new sounds, images and experiences. Babies are free to explore during the performance, interacting with singers, musicians and each other. We hope adults might find new ways of enjoying music too – through the ears of their bambini!
‘It is inspiring to create a new opera for what is possibly the most discerning – and important – audience there is. We all know that babies respond to music and we want to nurture and stimulate that relationship through their very first opera.’ Phelim McDermott
Written by Scottish Opera’s acclaimed Composer in Residence Lliam Paterson and directed by Improbable’s ever-imaginative Phelim McDermott, BambinO will be a twin celebration of the possibilities of music and the power of the infant imagination.
Director Phelim McDermott Designers Giuseppe Belli & Emma Belli
Pavilion Theatre, Manchester Part of Manchester International Festival 4 Jul 1.30pm (Preview) 5 Jul 10.30am & 1.30pm (Further venues around Greater Manchester, 6 to 16 Jul, excl. Mon 10 Jul) Edinburgh Academy Part of Edinburgh Festival Fringe 8 to 20 Aug (excl. Mon 14 Aug) 10am & 11.30am Scottish Opera Production Studios, Glasgow 21 Oct to 5 Nov (excl. Mon & Tue) 10am & 11.30am Running time approx. 45 mins
Soprano Charlotte Hoather Baritone Timothy Connor Cello Laura Sergeant Percussion Stuart Semple
Co-commissioned and produced by Scottish Opera, Manchester International Festival & Improbable 21
OPERA SPARKS 2018
World premieres
Opera Sparks was launched in 2016 as a competition to find Scotland’s most talented young composers and writers. Selected by a panel including Music Director Stuart Stratford, Head of Music Derek Clark and director Olivia Fuchs (Inés de Castro 2015), the winners’ works will be performed by Scottish Opera’s Connect Company –16 to 21 year old singers, instrumentalists and stage managers – in celebration of its 10th anniversary, and as part of 2018 Year of Young People.
THEN TO THE ELEMENTS Music Lewis Murphy Words Laura Attridge
Anna longs for a baby and this is her last chance. Finally it happens – but can a child ever be truly perfect? Inspired by Frankenstein, this modern tale of parenthood is written by Lewis Murphy, graduate of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and a Glyndebourne Young Composer in Residence, and Glasgow-born Laura Attridge.
LITTLE BLACK LIES
Music Matthew Whiteside Words Helene Grøn Sophie can’t remember how old she is or the last time she left the house. You probably heard about the war in her country. No? Well, everybody left but Sophie still has plenty of friends. Look! Here they are now… Exploring the stories we tell ourselves in order to live better with reality, Little Black Lies is written by Glasgow-based composer and sound designer Matthew Whiteside, and Danish playwright and poet Helene Grøn.
MAUD
Music & Words Henry McPherson In midsummer, while picking blackberries in an ancient wood, a child stumbles upon a tiny creature in the undergrowth. But taking her new-found treasure home, she soon realises that she has taken on more than she bargained for. A re-telling of a traditional folk tale, Maud is written and composed by Henry McPherson, founding member of the Glasgow-based artists’ collective Crossline.
Conductor Chris Gray Director Olivia Fuchs
14 • 15 Apr 2018 On sale Spring 2018 23
POP-UP OPERA 2017
Supported by Scottish Opera’s Education Angels & Murray McDavid
National Tour
Pop-up Opera is back on the road in 2017 – and taking to the waves on Scotland’s first floating opera house. Three brilliant ‘A Little Bit of…’ shows for audiences of all ages are brought to life by a storyteller, singers, musicians and a series of colourful illustrations. Each of the three 25-minute shows is performed in a specially-adapted, fullyaccessible trailer, touring festivals, events and venues around Scotland. And this year, there will also be performances on the converted pilot cutter Murray McDavid – sailing into marinas ‘doon the watter’ this Summer!
A LITTLE BIT OF LA BOHÈME PUCCINI arr. Derek Clark
One evening Rodolfo hears a knock at the door. It is Mimì, a neighbour, who has no match to light her candle. They stumble in the dark; their hands touch; they fall in love. But love is complicated and all is not as perfect as first it seems…
24 May to 1 Jul Tour includes Perth Arts Festival, Mount Stuart Isle of Bute, Prestwick, Girvan, Dumfries & Galloway Arts Festival, Riverside Museum Glasgow, Rhu Marina, James Watt Marina Greenock, Port Bannatyne Marina, Portavadie, Troon Yacht Haven, Clyde Marina Ardrossan, Largs Yacht Haven, Theatre Modo Peterhead, Pollok House Glasgow & Haddington Show On sale now – go to scottishopera.org.uk for details
A LITTLE BIT OF THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE GILBERT & SULLIVAN arr. Derek Clark
Frederic has fallen for Mabel, but he is apprentice to a pirate king and his blundering band of rogues. Can he find a way to escape his ties and live happily ever after?
The Murray McDavid
A LITTLE BIT OF BUBBLE McBEA Music Alan Penman Words Allan Dunn For kids aged 3 to 7
Bubble lives happily on a Scottish island with her dad, Barnacle McBea. Join her and her friends, Nippy the Crab, the Sole Sisters and Alex Salmon, as she learns all about the world around her, and about how little mistakes can cause BIG problems.
Narrator Allan Dunn/ Lissa Lorenzo
Soprano Jessica Leary/ Alison McNeill Baritone Aidan Edwards Violin Ysla Robertson Cello Andrew Drummond Huggan/ Laura Sergeant Harp Sharron Griffiths Guitar Sasha Savaloni/Ian Watt 25
TAKING OPERA ACROSS SCOTLAND As Scotland’s national opera company, it’s our job to bring opera to everyone, from the Borders to the islands, from novices to experts, from young to old.
EMERGING ARTISTS SUPPORTERS | NEW COMMISSIONS SUPPORTERS | ALEXA
Every one of our supporters helps to make this possible. The Alexander Gibson Circle supports a new production each year, while the Friends support the Opera Highlights tour, this Season visiting 31 venues. Education Angels help to introduce opera to people who might otherwise not experience it, Emerging Artists Supporters enable us to nurture a new generation of talented professionals, and our New Commissions Supporters make it possible to bring new work to the Scottish stage. Thank you to all of you whose support means we can reach more people and perform more opera.
‘Through its education work, Scottish Opera is sowing the seeds of future audiences, making opera fun for everyone. It’s wonderful to play a part in making that happen!’ Education Angel 2017
If you’d like to find out more, contact the Fundraising team on 0141 248 4567 or at supportus@scottishopera.org.uk or go to scottishopera.org.uk/support-us
ANDER GIBSON CIRCLE | EDUCATION ANGELS | FRIENDS OF SCOTTISH OPERA
DEVELOPING NEW TALENT Scottish Opera has a long history of nurturing talent; from performers to the creators of new work, we’ve always seen it as an integral part of our activity. This Season we have a whole range of performances featuring up-and-coming talent, including young writers and composers, the winners of our Opera Sparks competition (see page 23) and our Emerging Artists.
Emerging Artists Supported by The Robertson Trust, The John Mather Charitable Trust, The Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, Elizabeth Salvesen & Scottish Opera’s Emerging Artist Benefactors The Emerging Artists programme gives young artists the opportunity of a lifetime – a period of full-time work with the Company to help them launch their careers. Initially set up to nurture outstanding young singers, this year’s programme includes positions for a repetiteur, a costume trainee and a composer in residence.
Our 2017/18 artists are: Mezzo-sopranos Catherine Backhouse & Laura Zigmantaite Baritone Alex Otterburn Repetiteur Patrick Milne Costume trainee To be announced Composer To be announced Our Emerging Artists are involved in several operas throughout the Season, including La traviata, Greek and Ariadne auf Naxos. The singers will also perform in two recitals during the year: Fri 8 Dec | Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Thu 11 Jan | University of Glasgow Concert Hall
For more information on all this activity, performance details and how to book, go to scottishopera.org.uk 28
OPERA UNWRAPPED Whether you’re new to opera or an old hand, you can find out more at Opera Unwrapped – an hour-long taster that gives an insight into our shows and how they are created. Presented from the stage at each venue, our Unwrapped events involve singers, back-stage crew and The Orchestra of Scottish Opera. You’ll hear highlights from the music and find out more about the props, costumes, lighting and direction, as well as some back-stage secrets. Tickets are just £5 – come along and find out more!
LA TRAVIATA UNWRAPPED
ARIADNE AUF NAXOS UNWRAPPED
Glasgow Thu 26 Oct 6pm Aberdeen Fri 3 Nov 6pm Inverness Fri 10 Nov 6pm Edinburgh Thu 16 Nov 6pm
Glasgow Mon 26 Mar 6pm Edinburgh Fri 6 Apr 6pm
FLIGHT UNWRAPPED Glasgow Mon 19 Feb 6pm Edinburgh Fri 2 Mar 6pm
EUGENE ONEGIN UNWRAPPED Glasgow Wed 2 May 6pm Aberdeen Fri 11 May 6pm Inverness Fri 18 May 6pm Edinburgh Thu 24 May 6pm
Free tickets available for secondary school groups. Call our Education team on 0141 332 9559 to book. 29
ACCESSIBLE PERFORMANCES & PRE-SHOW TALKS Audio-description If you’re visually impaired, you can enjoy the full opera experience with a live commentary that describes the action on stage, without compromising the music. As part of the experience, we include: • A free CD with an introduction to the production • A free Touch Tour of the set, costumes and props before the show • An audio introduction 15 minutes before the start of the main performance. If you or someone you know is interested in booking for an audio-described performance, simply contact the box office at your chosen theatre. Discounted tickets are available. Tickets for audio-description and Touch Tours must be booked at least two weeks in advance. Guide dogs are welcome. Audio-described performances are listed here. Touch Tours start at 6pm for evening performances and 1.45pm for the matinee. 30
GREEK
Edinburgh Sun 6 Aug 5pm (Touch Tour 3.45pm) Glasgow Sat 3 Feb 7.15pm
LA TRAVIATA
Glasgow Sat 28 Oct 7.15pm Aberdeen Sat 4 Nov 7.15pm Inverness Sat 11 Nov 7.15pm Edinburgh Sun 19 Nov 3pm
FLIGHT
Glasgow Sat 24 Feb 7.15pm Edinburgh Sat 3 Mar 7.15pm
ARIADNE AUF NAXOS Glasgow Wed 28 Mar 7.15pm Edinburgh Sat 7 Apr 7.15pm
EUGENE ONEGIN
Glasgow Sat 5 May 7.15pm Aberdeen Sat 12 May 7.15pm Inverness Sat 19 May 7.15pm Edinburgh Thu 31 May 7.15pm
Dementia Friendly Performances This specially-created performance of La traviata is a fully-staged, shortened version of the show. A narrator, The Orchestra of Scottish Opera and a full cast of singers will lead audiences through the story and some of the best-loved music from the opera. Lighting levels in the auditorium are slightly brighter, and audiences are able to come in and out of
the auditorium if they wish, or watch in the bar on TV screens if they prefer. Groups welcome – call your local box office to book. Presenter Allan Dunn
LA TRAVIATA
Glasgow Tue 24 Oct 3pm Edinburgh Fri 17 Nov 3pm
Pre-show Talks Want to know more about the opera you’re going to see? Look out for a performance with a pre-show talk. These free half-hour sessions delve deeper into the opera, enhancing your enjoyment and extending your knowledge of the piece. Tickets are free but should be reserved by calling the box office at your chosen venue. Limited availability.
LA TRAVIATA
Glasgow Sat 28 Oct 6pm Aberdeen Sat 4 Nov 6pm Inverness Sat 11 Nov 6pm Edinburgh Sat 25 Nov 6pm
FLIGHT
Glasgow Sat 24 Feb 6pm Edinburgh Sat 3 Mar 6pm
ARIADNE AUF NAXOS Glasgow Sat 24 Mar 6pm Edinburgh Sat 7 Apr 6pm
EUGENE ONEGIN
Glasgow Sat 5 May 6pm Aberdeen Sat 12 May 6pm Inverness Sat 19 May 6pm Edinburgh Sat 26 May 6pm 31
DISCOVER MORE AND GET INVOLVED... Primary Schools Tour For Primary 5 to 7 classes
Supported by The Gannochy Trust & The Robertson Trust Our children’s operas make learning fun and creative. Pupils participate in a high-quality, day-long music theatre workshop, ending with a performance for parents and guests. This year’s show is The Dragon of the Western Seas, an exciting story inspired by the voyages of Admiral Zheng He, the 14th-century commander of a vast fleet of ships which set out from China to Indonesia, India, Arabia and the grasslands of Africa in search of trade, treaties and treasure. Music Alan Penman Words Ross Stenhouse Spring 2018 | 15 Jan to 23 Mar Summer 2018 | 16 Apr to 22 Jun
The Opera Factory For Primary 3 classes
What are the essential ingredients for making an opera? Singers? Orchestra? Costumes? All of these, of course, but you also need 32
a good story… Scottish Opera invites young audiences on a whirlwind musical adventure to find out how opera is made. Supported by online resources designed to reinforce key learning outcomes of A Curriculum for Excellence for Level 1. Presenter Allan Dunn Coming Summer 2018
Community Choir For adults of all ages
We need your voice! Set up in 2012, our Community Choir is going from strength to strength. With a mix of opera, classical, popular, folk and world music, the choir meets on Wednesday evenings in the Robertson Trust Education Rooms at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow. You don’t need to be able to read music or have any previous experience. Just come and give it a go, and see what fun singing can be! Conductor Katy Lavinia Cooper Autumn 2017 | 13 Sep to 29 Nov Spring 2018 | 10 Jan to 28 Mar
…with choirs, schools events, community projects and more Memory Spinners
For people living with dementia Memory Spinners groups meet weekly in Glasgow and Edinburgh. Using music, storytelling, movement and the visual arts, the programme helps people living with dementia and their carers relax, get creative and form new support networks. Throughout each term, they share memories that are then incorporated into a relaxed performance for friends and family. Autumn 2017 Glasgow 9 Oct to 1 Dec Edinburgh 17 Oct to 6 Dec
Connect Company
For 16 to 21 year olds with a passion for performance Scottish Opera’s youth company gives aspiring singers, instrumentalists and stage managers a unique, practical introduction to the world of opera. Meeting regularly throughout the year, they work with a range of opera professionals, from conductors to choreographers, to hone their skills, culminating in their own fullystaged performance. For more information on all of these projects, go to scottishopera.org.uk/join-in or call our Education team on 0141 332 9559.
Education Angels Scottish Opera’s Education Angels help us take opera to people of all ages across Scotland – from someone’s first experience of live performance to those who have seen it all. To find out more and get involved, call our Fundraising team on 0141 248 4567 or go to scottishopera.org.uk/support-us 33
BOX OFFICE INFORMATION
282 Hope Street, Glasgow G2 3QA BOX OFFICE By phone: 0844 871 7647 Mon to Sat 9am-10pm & Sun 10am-8pm. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge.
In person: Mon to Sat 10am-6pm. (8pm on performance nights – sales for that evening’s performance only from 6pm). Online: atgtickets.com/glasgow Access Freephone number: 0800 912 6971 YOU CAN PAY BY All major credit cards including Amex (Electron only in person). Cheques payable to ATG London Ltd. DISCOUNTS (*except Fri and Sat evenings for Subscription Series) Discounts available for over 60s.* Discounts available for full-time students, unwaged, wheelchair users, people with disabilities and audio-description patrons. Group rates available.* Call Group Bookings on 0333 009 5389. Mon to Fri 9am-5.30pm. Calls charged at local rate.
Under 26s – £10 tickets, any seat, any performance. Bookable in advance. Show valid ID when booking. TICKETS IN PERSON £11.50-£79.50 (Subscription Series), £15-£30 (Greek), £14-£27 (The Sunday Series – 29 Oct & 6 May), £11.50 (The Sunday Series – 25 Feb) TICKETS ONLINE/PHONE £12.50-£80.50 (Subscription Series), £16-£31 (Greek), £15-£28 (The Sunday Series – 29 Oct & 6 May), £12.50 (The Sunday Series – 25 Feb) A one-off £2.85 transaction fee applies to online, phone and postal bookings.
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BOX OFFICE INFORMATION
13/29 Nicolson Street, Edinburgh EH8 9FT BOX OFFICE By phone: 0131 529 6000 Mon to Sat 11am-6pm In person: Mon to Sat 10am-6pm (until curtain up on performance nights). Online: edtheatres.com Text relay: 18002 0131 529 6003 YOU CAN PAY BY Visa Electron, Visa/Delta, Mastercard and Maestro. Cheques payable to Festival City Theatres Trust. DISCOUNTS (*except Fri and Sat evenings) Day seats available from 10am on the day of the performance. Limited availability, in person only. We reserve the right to limit to 2 per person. Discounts available for over 65s, unwaged, FCTT friends, YoungScot card holders and full-time students.* Discounts available for people with disabilities, wheelchair users and audio-description patrons. Please contact box office for details. Group/school rates available.* Call Group Bookings on 0131 529 6005. Mon to Fri 11am-6pm. Full-time students and unwaged – £10 standby ticket, subject to availability on the day of performance, from 10am in person with valid ID.* Under 26s – £10 tickets, any seat, any performance. Bookable in advance. Show valid ID when booking. Please note: discounts only apply to Scottish Opera’s Subscription Series. For information on discounts for Greek, go to eif.co.uk TICKETS £19.50-£84.50 (Subscription Series) Prices include a contribution to the Theatres’ Development Fund. An 80p handling charge will be added for posting your tickets to you (when booked more than 1 week in advance).
Tickets for Greek at Edinburgh International Festival are available from: Hub Tickets, Castlehill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh EH1 2NE 0131 473 2000 | eif.co.uk TICKETS £20-£36 A transaction fee of £1 per ticket, up to a maximum of £4, will be added to all bookings. £1 for postage will be added if applicable. 35
BOX OFFICE INFORMATION
Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen AB25 1GL BOX OFFICE By phone: 01224 641122 Mon to Sat 9.30am-6pm. In person: Mon to Sat 9.30am-6pm (8pm on performance nights). Online: aberdeenperformingarts.com YOU CAN PAY BY Visa, Mastercard and Maestro. DISCOUNTS Discounts available for APA Friends, students, over 60s, unemployed, people with disabilities and audio-description patrons. Group rates available. Email groups@aberdeenperformingarts.com Under 26s – £10 tickets, any seat, any performance. Bookable in advance. Show valid ID when booking. TICKETS £21-£59 A £1 postage charge will be added if applicable.
Bishops Road, Inverness IV3 5SA
BOX OFFICE By phone: 01463 234234 Mon to Sat 10am-8pm (Sun from 11am). In person: Mon to Sat 10am-8pm (Sun from 11am). Online: eden-court.co.uk YOU CAN PAY BY Visa, Mastercard and Maestro. Cheques payable to Eden Court. DISCOUNTS Discounts available for Eden Court Friends, students, over 60s, Jobseekers Allowance, ES40s, Registered Disabled and audio-description patrons. Group rates available. Contact the box office for details. Under 26s – £10 tickets, any seat, any performance. Bookable in advance. Show valid ID when booking. TICKETS £19-£58 A £1 postage charge will be added if applicable. 36
BOX OFFICE INFORMATION
Candleriggs, Glasgow G1 1NQ BOX OFFICE By phone: 0141 353 8000 Mon to Sat 10am-6pm. In person: Glasgow Royal Concert Hall Mon to Sat 10am-6pm; City Halls & Fruitmarket Mon to Sat 12pm-6pm. Sunday hours vary – please contact the box office to confirm. Online: glasgowconcerthalls.com | ticketsglasgow.com YOU CAN PAY BY All major debit/credit cards (excl. American Express, Diners Club and Visa Electron). Cheques payable to Glasgow Life. DISCOUNTS £5 tickets available for full-time students and under 26s. Standard concessions available. TICKETS £10-£15 A 50p booking fee applies to each ticket purchased. A £1.50 transaction fee applies to phone bookings. A £1 transaction fee applies to online bookings. A £1 postage fee will be charged if applicable. Tickets for The Fiery Angel also available from: RCS Box Office, 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow G2 3DB 0141 332 5057 | rcs.ac.uk/boxoffice
Tickets for BambinO available from: Edinburgh: Fringe Box Office 180 High Street, Edinburgh EH1 1QS 0131 226 0000 edfringe.com
Glasgow: Royal Conservatoire of Scotland 100 Renfrew Street, Glasgow G2 3DB 0141 332 5057 rcs.ac.uk/boxoffice
Pre-show on the door: Edinburgh Academy 42 Henderson Row, Edinburgh EH3 5BL (Subject to availability)
Pre-show on the door: Scottish Opera Production Studios 40 Edington Street, Glasgow G4 9RD
Tickets available 20 Apr (Online only until 7 Jun)
Tickets available 20 Apr
Manchester: Manchester International Festival Festival Square, Albert Square, Manchester M2 5DB 0843 208 1840 mif.co.uk
CONTACT US Scottish Opera, 39 Elmbank Crescent, Glasgow G2 4PT JOIN OUR MAILING LIST Call us on 0141 248 4567 or sign up online at scottishopera.org.uk TELL US WHAT YOU THINK If you have any feedback on any of our activity, we’d love to hear from you. Email thisiswhatithink@scottishopera.org.uk
Scottish Opera
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@ scottishopera
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Image/photography credits © James Glossop – pages 2, 16, 26, 28 © Andrew Lee – page 3 © Mark Hamilton – page 20 © Sally Jubb – pages 24, 32, 33 © Tim Morozzo – pages 26, 27 © Tommy Ga-Ken Wan – page 27 © Eoin Carey – page 29 © Drew Farrell – page 30 © Bartosz Madejski – page 33
scottishopera.org.uk
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Registered in Scotland Number SCO37531 Scottish Opera – Scottish Charity Number SCO19787 Scottish Opera Theatre Royal Ltd – Scottish Charity Number SCO14382 Scottish Opera Endowment Trust – Scottish Charity Number SCO03924
Brochure © Scottish Opera 2017. Compiled by Scottish Opera. All details are printed in good faith and are correct at the time of going to press. Scottish Opera reserves the right to change programme and cast details at any time. Visual material contained within the brochure is illustrative and does not necessarily relate to staged productions. Printed by J Thomson Colour Printers.