Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
21 June 2004
Concert showcases the King of Italian Opera
“Simon O’Neill is stunning…” [Dominion Post, 2003]
“He has a splendid voice of heroic proportions."
[The Washington Post, 2003]
“Patricia Wright was the consummate artist, making so little of difficulties that even tested American soprano Dawn
Upshaw when she performed the work last year.” [NZ Herald, 2004]
“She was transcendent in Richard Strauss' Four Last Songs.” [NZ Herald, 2003]
Following the first, sold-out concert in the Auckland Philharmonia’s “Opera in Concert” series last year, the orchestra
presents “Opera in Concert – Verdi”, a glorious survey of some of the most memorable music ever sung.
Giuseppe Verdi’s stature as one of the greatest opera composers is undisputed. “Opera in Concert – Verdi” will include
scenes and arias from classics such as Nabucco, La Traviata, Aida, Il Trovatore, Rigoletto, La Forza del Destino, Don
Carlos and Macbeth and lesser known gems like Simon Boccanegra and I Vespri Siciliani, among others.
A line-up of leading New Zealand artists from the operatic stage joins the Auckland Philharmonia for “Opera in Concert”.
They include Simon O’Neill (tenor), returning to NZ from his American successes, Patricia Wright (soprano), Grant
Dickson (bass), Shaun Dixon (tenor) plus a special “Verdi Choir”. Marc Taddei conducts the Auckland Philharmonia and
well known broadcaster Robert Johnson will take the audience through the life of Verdi and the stories behind the
operas.
Experience the excitement, the tragedy, and the passion of Verdi at full strength with the Auckland Philharmonia and
guest artists – 7.30pm, Wednesday 21 July at the Auckland Town Hall. Adult tickets $36-$110; concessions available
(service fees may apply). Phone the Ticketek Orchestra Hotline on 307 5139.
“Opera in Concert – Verdi” is presented in association with Dr Tom Morris and The Auckland Varicose Veins Clinic. The
Auckland Philharmonia receives major funding from Creative New Zealand and a major grant from Auckland City.
ENDS