National Opera tour stops off at Nova Hreod

Students introduced to the world of opera

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An enthralling performance from the English Pocket Opera Company gave Year 7 and 8 students the chance to experience opera in school.

The visitors came to Nova as part of an exciting national tour which has just been launched in United Learning schools.

Students were treated to a performance of ‘Opera Blocks;’ an engaging, interactive show designed to break down the building blocks of opera. They were introduced to the three basic ingredients of opera – action, words and music – and were taught the more technical side of the music, including the use of libretto, arias and choruses. They were then treated to a hilarious version of the world-reknowned opera ‘Carmen’ which was performed by our own students together with the members of the English Pocket Opera Company, before having the chance to write their own opera which was performed by the visitors - a bloodthirsty melodrama featuring Mr Alderson and Mrs Horsell.

Students were spellbound by the performance which for many of them was the very first opportunity to experience live opera.

Mrs Lewis, Head of Performing Arts, said: “I didn’t know what to expect from the English Pocket Opera Company, what they presented however was truly fantastic. I was so excited and enthralled by their performance (probably more than the students were).  What a brilliant way to get students to engage with Opera. The students left the theatre buzzing this morning and really enjoyed what the company had to offer. I’m so impressed, when can you come back?”

Year 7 student Grace, who played the part of Carmen, said: “Today was so much fun because I got to go on stage and this lady told me what to do and said that I had to mime singing. It was so funny. I got to wear a costume and dance around as Carmen.  Can we do it again please?”

David from Year 7 said: “It was really good because they were good at singing, they got us involved and the production was very funny”

“It was a good show because they interacted with other people.  My favourite moment was when they got the students involved because it gave people a chance to learn about Opera” Kallem Year 7

“The English Pocket Opera Company was fun because we got to get involved.  It was fun to watch and I enjoyed singing along with the music.” Declan Year 8