Pushing creative boundaries
Re-imagining traditional opera to challenge, inspire and engage audiences.
In 2018, New Zealand Opera presented its new, almost entirely ‘home-grown’ production of Puccini’s La bohème, in Wellington’s Opera House. A feast for the eyes and the ears - it was cast almost entirely from New Zealand singers; and the design team was an all-female, all-New Zealand affair. Spectacular staging and costuming along with powerful singing made for a grand night of opera.
It was also the New Zealand Opera mainstage directorial debut of Wellingtonian Jacqueline Coats, who has been with the company for some years as its regular Assistant Director on mainstage operas and the Director of its Opera in Schools productions.
“Through the passion and generosity of the Nikau community and their unwavering commitment to the arts in New Zealand, we are able to bring new works to the stage, which challenge, inspire and engage audiences every year.”
Creative capital
Since 2000, New Zealand Opera has presented 451 opera performances, including 48 mainscale operas, 30 touring and festival operas. The company has been involved in a range of activities: It has commissioned New Zealand original works, participated in festivals throughout New Zealand, run national regional tours and been involved in co-productions with Opera Queensland, State Opera South Australia, Victorian Opera and Seattle Opera.
Blending national and international narratives, their mission is to lead opera from Aotearoa New Zealand in a way that reimagines the art form; embraces the cultural and social identities of our diverse communities; and ensures a vibrant and sustainable presence for opera.
A roaring success
Funding from Nikau Foundation provided essential support to hire out space for the cast to rehearse. The production garnered an overwhelming response from the more than 4,000 patrons of all ages, which included more than 150 students who attended the dress rehearsal.
“Gorgeously atmospheric and completely engrossing, this is a triumphant performance that cannot be missed.” said one review.
“Overall this was a moving and beautifully staged production with glorious singing from the principals. The dark tragedy is allowed to speak for itself without being overwhelmed by histrionics and the fast-moving comedy provides contrasting light.” said another.
Other patrons also engaged in the opera-based education and outreach programme, by attending pre-performance talks and on-stage tours for vision-impaired patrons.
We are grateful to the Barbara Milne fund which helped make this grant possible.