Park Opera South Hill Park 


  About us


Founded in 1981, this friendly opera group has its home in South Hill Park Arts Centre in Bracknell. It usually presents two operas each year, in February and June, and a concert in September, in the beautiful Wilde Theatre. The group takes pride in the variety of works performed, ranging from Handel, through Donizetti and Humperdinck to Britten, but delighting especially in the marvellous repertoire of Mozart, Verdi and Puccini. The group has performed some 40 different operas since it was founded.

Operas are sung in English to make them as accessible as possible, with full professional orchestra, and principals of the highest standard, drawn from the local area and further afield. Many of the principals are aspiring young singers who join the group to gain experience before establishing their careers. Park Opera's chorus is well known for its enthusiasm, friendliness and talent. Whole families are often involved in a production! The society is also fortunate to have a dedicated team who carry out the many behind-the-scenes activities such as set design, scenery construction and lighting.

Musical and dramatic standards are high, and are matched by beautiful sets and costumes. Productions are often enhanced by the lively contributions of some gifted young dancers, and the group is fortunate to be led by very experienced musical directors and producers.

Two or three social events, such as barbecues, parties and visits to theatres and concerts are also organised during the year. There is an annual membership subscription and a show fee is also payable. Scores are usually borrowed from the libraries at nominal cost, but occasionally it is necessary to buy them at a favourable price.

Rehearsals

Chorus rehearsals are held most term-time Thursdays at 8pm. On the first Thursday in each month the rehearsal is held at St. John's Hall, Church Road, Windlesham, GU20 6BL and on all other Thursdays at All Saints Church Hall, London Road, Ascot SL5 8DQ. Additional Sunday rehearsals are held when necessary. Principal rehearsals are arranged flexibly. Park Opera offers the warmest of welcomes to new members, both performing and backstage, so why not come along to a rehearsal and meet us? We would love to see you.

New members

Park Opera welcomes new members in any capacity: as principal or chorus singers, or backstage. If you would like to join, we meet at All Saints Church Hall, London Road, Ascot SL5 8DQ on Thursday evenings from 8.00-10.00pm. Details may be obtained from the Secretary, Sue Lawrence, on 01344 451109. If you wish to be placed on our mailing list to receive details of all our activities, please email Keith Ward: MailingList@parkopera.org.uk

Committee

Chairman: Sallie Ward
Vice Chairman: Lucy Dickson
Secretary: Sue Lawrence
Treasurer: Mark Mainwaring
Publicity Officer: David Douglas
Business Manager: Sue Mainwaring

Members:
Susanne Lee
Edwin Trout

Park Opera is a registered Charity No. 1099749