Making a triumphant return to public performances, under the talented and visionary leadership of artistic director Luke Severn, The Gisborne Singers presented four concerts of Henry Purcell’s opera, Dido and Aeneas.
Held on Sunday May 1 and 8, the choir, as it had never been seen before, put on exciting performances of what is the oldest English opera, in the appropriately historic Bluestone Theatre, Kyneton.
Local mezzo-soprano of international acclaim, Kristen Leich, was magnificent in her portrayal of Dido, while tenor Joshua Erdelyi-Götz excelled as Aeneas.
The production gave an amazing opportunity for small solo parts within the choir and the newly formed Macedon Ranges Chamber Orchestra, an initiative championed by Luke and The Gisborne Singers, provided wonderful backing.
The work was a great source of achievement for choir members, being a different type of production with a requirement to sing without scores, and a liberating opportunity for self-expression.
Rave reviews followed the first two concerts resulting in a sell-out for the final two.
The choir always welcomes new singers (especially tenors and basses).
Enquiries can be directed to the choir’s website: www.gisbornesingers.org.au or phone 0408 156 263.
