High Voltage Opera Helps Oncology

Genesis Energy Chief Executive, Murray Jackson momentarily swopped his “captain of industry hat” for a toreador’s montera this week assisted by opera star, Jessie Raven (pictured). Miss Raven who performs the title role in the upcoming Genesis Energy Spring Season of Carmen, took time out from rehearsals to show Mr Jackson through some of the 300 costumes belonging to The NBR New Zealand Opera’s lavish new production which opens in Wellington next week and then in Auckland early October.

Genesis Energy Chief Executive, Murray Jackson swops his “captain of industry hat” for a toreador’s montera this week assisted by Carmen opera star, Jessie Raven. Image by Neil Mackenzie

“I guess the life of a corporate Chief Executive is comparable to that of a bullfighter on occasions,” laughs Jackson. “We’re usually taking calculated risks and even dicing with death at times! I’m not sure that my singing is up to the task, though.”

With its hot-blooded world of Spanish gypsies and bullfighters, well-known music and compelling drama, The Genesis Energy Spring Season of Carmen promises high voltage opera. Widely regarded as the world's favourite opera, this production brings together a large international creative team and cast, including the gorgeous Miss Raven as opera’s most sensuous “bad girl”.

The Genesis Energy Spring Season also brings together a unique partnership that looks set to benefit the health of many New Zealanders. Genesis Energy’s commitment to The NBR New Zealand Opera through a registered charity, the Genesis Oncology Trust, sees the Trust benefiting from the opening night performances of each Genesis Energy Spring Season. Opening night tickets to the gala charity performances in both Wellington and Auckland are subject to a $10 donation with proceeds going to the Genesis Oncology Trust.

“Our intention with this partnership is to take a holistic approach to corporate arts sponsorship, which potentially can benefit the wellbeing of all New Zealanders both on a cultural and physical level. As one of New Zealand’s largest energy companies, Genesis Energy believes in giving back to the community in a way that supports those who support others. The Genesis Oncology Trust fulfils that mission.”

Registered as a charitable organization, the Genesis Oncology Trust was established in May 2002 to take New Zealand’s fight against cancer forward. Donations from Genesis of $6.5 million have been invested with the interest earned forming the basis of annual grants allocated by the Trust. The grants support New Zealand-based initiatives leading to improvements in the prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment of cancer and the palliative care of cancer patients. Additional pledges and donations are actively sought and encouraged.

To date a total of 36 grants worth more than $800,000 have been awarded. The successful recipients from the third round will be announced in December 2004.

The Genesis Energy Spring Season of Carmen is at the Westpac St James Theatre, Wellington from 16-25 September, and at the Aotea Centre, Auckland from 7-17 October.

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