Entertaining Double Bill From Operantics
The vibrant young company Operantics returns in January with an enticing double bill Gentleman’s Island by Joseph Horowitz (1958) and The Telephone by Gian Carlo Menotti (1946).
Gentleman’s Island is a one act opera inspired by a ‘Bab Ballad’ of WS Gilbert (of Gilbert & Sullivan fame). It is a drily comic tale of two very British shipwreck survivors who are unable to start any form of conversation because they have not been formally introduced! However, when by chance they discover they have a mutual acquaintance, they quickly become bosom buddies…..until a most unexpected twist! Hayden Barrington sings the role of Mr Gray and Ryan O’Donnell sings Mr Somers.
The Telephone is a hilarious two-hander where Ben’s attempts to propose marriage to Lucy are frustrated by her interminable conversations on the telephone. Can you guess his ingenious solution? Samanta Lestavel and Ian Warwick star.
Operantics is a new independent opera company run for and by young artists who are dedicated to pursuing careers in opera.
Later in the year Operantics will perform the Australian premiere of Jonathan Dove’s contemporary operatic setting of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park (three performances from 20-24 April) and Bellini’s timeless romantic favourite La Sonnambula (three performances from 29 Sept to 2 Oct).
Cast and Creatives: Artistic Director and Producer: Katie Miller-Crispe/ Artistic Advisor & Music/Stage Director: Tristan Entwistle / Pianist: Nathaniel Kong
Gentleman’s Island: Mr Gray – Hayden Barrington/ Mr Somers – Ryan O’Donnell
The Telephone: Lucy – Samanta Lestavel/ Ben – Ian Warwick
Tickets: Adults: $40/ Concession: $25 / Kids <12: $15 /Groups 6+: $30 / conc. groups: $20
Bookings: www.theindependent.org.au or call 9409 4462
