‘Castor and Pollux’ concert information
Before there was sibling rivalry, the myth of Castor and Pollux exemplified fraternal love. Their story is based in mythology and self-sacrifice between two brothers. Pinchgut Opera presents Jean- Phillipe Rameau’s opera Castor and Pollux next weekend.
When it was written in 1737 and revised in 1754, the music created deep divisions in French society, pitting the followers of Lully and his conservative style against the newer ambitions and innovations of Rameau.
Paris based Jeffrey Thomson an expert in the high tenor haut-contre style sings the role of Castor. New Zealand born Hadleigh Adams shortly to graduate from the Guildhall School and take up a post with the Young Artists Programme of the San Francisco Opera will sing the role of Pollux. Also in the ensemble are soprano Celeste Lazarenko, Cantillation and the Orchestra of The Antipodes performing on authentic French Baroque instruments. Directed by Kate Gaul, the opera will be conducted by Pinchgut’s co-artistic director Antony Walker who has returned from Washington for this production.
Pinchgut Opera is once again offering to refund the ticket price and a $5 bus fare – no questions asked – to any first-time opera-goer, or ‘opera virgin’, who does not enjoy their 2012 production. Pinchgut first made the money-back offer in 2006, and since then have only refunded three unhappy punters. Chair of Pinchgut Liz Neilsen says ‘We want to attract all music lovers, but understand that some people might feel that they don’t like opera. Pinchgut productions are true to the music but they’re also fun, sophisticated and enjoyable for modern audiences.’
Pinchgut first made the opera virgin offer six years ago, and have converted many to this wonderful form of opera – with amazing results. Says Liz, ‘Our audience grows every year, which is testament to the joy our productions bring. I don’t think there’s anyone else in the world offering a completely “risk-free night” out at the opera.’
Click here to read the interview with Jeffrey Thomson and Hadleigh Adams.
Click here to see Bridget Elliot’s stunning images from production week.
Tickets: Visit www.cityrecitalhall.com or call (02) 8256 2222
