Crunch-busting shows set for Opera House
THE curtain lifted on the Grand Opera House's new season as the landmark venue unveiled its spring and summer line-up.
During a recession a night at the theatre might be considered the kind of luxury people might cut back on, but the Opera House is reporting brisk sales.
"I'm pleased to say that bookings for the forthcoming season are very healthy indeed," theatre director John Botteley said.
"Shows like La Triviata, Flashdance and The History of the Troubles are performing excellently."
It could be a sign people are visiting the theatre to take their mind off the economic gloom – and the arts is one expense they are reluctant to cut back on.
In keeping with this optimistic outlook, the Opera House programme contains many uplifting shows, with Evita, Fame and Cabaret all coming to its renowned stage in the first half of 2009.
But it was amateur theatre that brought a splash of colour and music to yesterday's launch as members of Belfast Operatic Company performed songs from their upcoming production of Hello Dolly.
Laura Kerr, who plays the title role in this classic musical, said: "It's a great fun show, with music and dancing – it'll be a fantastic night out for all the family."
The Belfast performer, a youth pastor by day, has been with the amateur company for seven years.
But their highly acclaimed shows – which are on a par with professional productions – have been a feature of the Opera House programme over the years.
"We all just feel at home here and we're aware the show has to be a quality one, so we put a lot of hard work into it," Ms Kerr said.
"Nothing can beat the rush you get when you're on stage."
Rehearsals for Hello Dolly began last month and the curtain is set to rise on the production in May.
Among the visiting productions are All The Fun of the Fair – a new musical featuring David Essex – Gilbert and Sullivan's HMS Pinafore and a revival of the classical World War One play For King and Country.
There is plenty of room for home-grown performances and many established favourites will be back in the Opera House.
Modern comedy The History of the Troubles (Accordin' to my Da) returns for what will be its sixth run in the Opera House.
Women on the Verge of HRT, the Marie Jones play which enjoyed a successful run last year, will be returning in June.
And May McFettridge, who has become a mainstay of the pantomime season over the years, will be on stage in the comedy A Happy Medium.
For more information on Grand Opera House shows, or to book tickets, contact the box office on 028 9024 1919 or log on to www.goh.co.uk
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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