Introductions to II Corsaro

Introductions to Il corsaro

With rehearsals in full, swashbuckling swing, Verdi’s Il corsaro, NZSM’s 2013 full-scale opera production, is set to delight audiences in four fully-staged  performances from July 26–30 (next week) in the Opera House, Wellington.

The opera has never been performed in New Zealand before, so for opera ‘lovers’ it will be a new find. For opera ‘others’ it is a perfect introduction to the art form. Il Corsaro is a tale of high adventure, of pirates and plunder, flame and blood, nobility and cruelty, true love and impatient passion., set in an exotic land of cruel sultans and alluring harems. And the NZSM musicians are certain to provide  fresh, energetic, committed and accomplished performances.

Those considering whether to attend might take one of two opportunities this week to learn more about the opera, both presented by NZSM Director Professor Elizabeth Hudson. On Thursday evening, 18 July from 7:00pm, Radio New Zealand Concert’s Appointment programme will broadcast a one-hour presentation from Prof Hudson introducing the opera.

And on Friday 19th July, NZSM’s third event in the 2013 Friday at 5:15 series will also be presented by Prof Hudson: an illustrated introduction to Verdi's Il corsaro. The 'illustrations' for this presentation will be provided by graduate and student performers who are about to perform these roles on stage. This free event will be held in the Ilott Theatre of Wellington Town Hall, from 5:15pm. Seating is limited.

“For anyone considering attending the opera,” says Professor Hudson, “this Friday at 5:15 introduction will be the ideal opportunity to gain a foretaste, and deeper appreciation, of what promises to be a remarkable and memorable performance season.

“Il corsaro may be less well known than the Nabucco and Macbeth which preceded it, and Rigoletto, La traviata and Aida which followed, but it is a further wonderful example of the work that Giuseppe Verdi added to the operatic repertoire.”

The NZSM Friday at 5:15 series of free, one-hour events is a 'downtown' showcase of the extraordinary work and talent at Te K?k? New Zealand School of Music. We acknowledge the generous support of the Wellington City Council through their community venue subsidy scheme.

ENDS

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