Six of New Zealand’s most successful International opera stars will be joining the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra in
their upcoming performance APO at the Opera: Tales of Passion and Betrayal on Friday 9 October.
COVID related travel restrictions have kept these gifted performers at home in New Zealand and away from their
previously scheduled international engagements.
World-renowned kiwi Tenor Simon O’Neill has been the creative driver behind the programme and as one of the world’s most
in-demand opera stars, he brings considerable mana to the stage. The stellar cast he has helped assemble will also shine
a light on the strong singing tradition that exists here in Aotearoa.
The APO is also looking forward to reuniting with acclaimed New Zealand born conductor Holly Mathieson. Holly has
returned home to New Zealand for an extended stay and will conduct this 9 October performance along with a variety of
other engagements around New Zealand.
With restrictions on mass gatherings scheduled to lift at 11.59 on Wednesday 7 October, this performance will be the
orchestra’s first opportunity to welcome back audiences to the Auckland Town Hall since the second lockdown commenced in
early August.
To help celebrate this occasion and to show support for the wider creative sector, the APO has collaborated with leading
New Zealand fashion designer, Liz Mitchell ONZM, who will be dressing all six soloists for this performance in her
signature couture designs.
Friday 9 October with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra promises to be a night of glamour and breath-taking music from
some of the most beloved operas ever written.The Trusts Community Foundation Opera in ConcertAPO at the OPERA: Tales of Passion and Betrayal7.30pm, Friday 9 OctoberAuckland Town Hall
Conductor Holly Mathieson
Presenter Simon O’Neill
Soprano Anna Leese
Soprano Natasha Wilson
Mezzo-soprano Kristin Darragh
Tenor Simon O’Neill
Tenor Amitai Pati
Tenor Oliver SewellProgramme:
Bellini Norma: Overture
Bellini I puritani
Gounod Roméo et Juliette
Puccini La bohème
Verdi La traviata
Verdi Otello
Verdi Rigoletto