London Opera News

By Hazel Last edited 200 months ago
London Opera News
LondonOperaNews.jpg

We don't talk about opera enough on Londonist so here's a double-whammy of high notes and hollering...

For the full Royal Opera House effect without going to the Royal Opera House, the BP Summer Screen brings Tosca to the masses tonight. Puccini's tale of love, murder, deception, jealousy and all the other standard opera elements is being broadcast live from the Royal Opera House on big screens in Canada Square (Canary Wharf), Victoria Park and Potters Field Park next to City Hall. It's completely free and as the organisers encourage audiences, 'bring a picnic, bring friends and family...' and bring an umbrella and something warm to wear.

For a more contemporary experience, and those who prefer opera indoors, the Almeida Opera Season starts this Thursday and runs until 22 July. The Almeida Opera Season is a showcase of contemporary music theatre and new opera - a rare thing for London theatre so definitely worth a look. Six productions make up the programme; the final piece Critical Mass is of particular interest, being a huge collaboration between Streetwise Opera and unusual, 'mixed bag' choir The Shout. Streetwise Opera supports those who have been affected by homelessness through music-making opportunities - and as it is opera, it's not about increasing self-esteem by bashing a tambourine every now and then. This is high quality stuff and with input from The Shout, this new comic opera about an international political summit should be a hot ticket for the summer.

BP Summer Screen presents Tosca, tonight. For venues and start time, go to the BP Summer Screen website here. The Almeida Opera Season opens on Thursday 5 July with The Silent Twins and the programme continues until 22 July. For the full programme and booking information, go to the Almeida website here.

Last Updated 03 July 2007