Opera in the Valley of the Giants

WA Opera in the Valley of the Giants. Photo: Perry McLaughlan

Walpole-Nornalup National Park was the setting for a very special event. As part of the celebrations for the West Australian Opera’s 50th Anniversary, the company took live opera to the regions and one of those events was held in the gorgeous WA setting of Valley of the Giants on Saturday 25 November. Guests of this free concert enjoyed a picnic with friends and relaxed under the stars as they were serenaded with the magical sounds of opera.

The concert was set against the iconic background of the Valley of the Giants trees, which were lit in gorgeous colours as West Australian Opera artists (tenor Paul O’Neill, soprano Sara Macliver, mezzo soprano Fleuranne Brockway and baritone Mark Alderson) performed a program of operatic hits.

Carolyn Chard, General Manager, West Australian Opera explained, “Our mission is to grow opera audiences and encourage the love of opera to beat strongly across our state. It was wonderful to see so many patrons of all ages enjoy Opera in the Valley of the Giants. Opera warms our hearts and speaks to our souls, it transcends language and this was evident as patrons participated in the concert, singing, chanting and laughing together. We were also proud to present our Wesfarmers Arts Singing Workshops in Walpole and Denmark, empowering local choristers, amateur singers and school children to use their voice and learn from our artists.

Opera amongst the giant trees. Photo: Perry McLaughlan

“We appreciate the support of the State Government through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Lotterywest and the Royalties for Regions program, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Wesfarmers Arts and Minderoo Foundation.”