Local audiences will have the chance to see two lively and accessible operas by Mozart when Pop-Up Opera comes to the Assembly Rooms in Bath later this year.
The innovative opera company aims to broaden the appeal of opera by taking it into unusual spaces, reaching those who are hesitant about opera as well as dedicated opera lovers.
Past venues have included farms, museums, pubs, a hospital, a planetarium and even the underground Thames Tunnel Shaft.
The Bath show on Wednesday 11th July features two one-act comedies: Der Schauspieldirektor, in which two actresses battle it out to be the prima donna, and Bastien und Bastienne, in which a pair of lovers tease and test their feelings for each other.
These comedies help to showcase Mozart’s music and sense of playfulness. The first was written in the last five years of his life and the second when he was just 12 years old. The music will be sung in German with English subtitles.
Anna Pool, a New British Music Theatre Award nominee critically acclaimed for her bold and original directing style, will direct the production.
Councillor Paul Myers, (Conservative, Midsomer Norton Redfield), cabinet member for Economic and Community Regeneration, said: “We look forward to welcoming Pop-Up Opera to Bath, and hope that their innovative show will be enjoyed by local opera fans as well as people who have never been to the opera before.”
Hospitality tickets are available, including a glass of sparkling English wine or a light meal.
Doors will open at 6pm for diners, the auditorium will open at 7pm, and the performance will start at 7.30pm.
There will be an interval between the two operas. For tickets, visit www.popupopera.co.uk.