POP-UP performances of opera took place across Coventry on Saturday and Sunday ahead of the HER DAY production at the city’s HMV Empire which runs from March 8 to 12.
The sounds of opera echo through Coventry City Centre. Picture by Marcus Mingins 0722017MMR4 copyright Bullivant Media
The talented performers took to several places in the city centre to treat passers-by to a flavour of what they can expect, including The Cosy Club, Shelton Square, the Yard, the Foleshill Road and Cannon Park.
People could stop for a few minutes to listen to music from well-known operas, as well as get a sneak HER DAY preview.
The piece’s composer Sayan Kent said: “It is very exciting to bring opera to the streets of Coventry, thanks to all the venues that made us welcome.
“We truly believe opera is for everyone, so it is important for us to perform in untraditional places.”
She added the whole team could not wait for the HER DAY premiere on March 8, which is also International Women’s Day.
“It was fabulous to be able to give a taster of what is to come’.”
Among the HER DAY performers are professional opera singers Nina Bennett, Kelly Glyptis and Claire Wild, who are accompanied by musical director Berrak Dyer – she has worked with prestigious organisations including the Royal Opera House.
Other members were on hand to explain more about the production and accompanying project aimed at making opera more accessible to all.
Written by Sayan Kent (composer/music) and Vanessa Oakes (librettist/words), HER DAY puts a spotlight on the lives of ordinary Coventry women engaged in everyday acts of peaceful protest.
The sounds of opera echo through Coventry City Centre. Picture by Marcus Mingins 0722017MMR5 copyright Bullivant Media
Four distinct stories shared at a weekly friendship group give a moving and at times very funny insight into women’s daily lives and their common need for connection.
The opera is directed by Lucy Bradley with music director Dyer.
It includes a community chorus led by Mariana Rosas (Colla Voce Chamber Choir and Birmingham City Council Choir).
As well as the premiere, there will be a relaxed performance on March 9, captioning using the Difference Engine on March 10 and British Sign Language will be used as part of the March 12 show.
Visit herdayopera.eventbrite.co.uk for times, tickets and more information.
