Tosca to be split in three!

Puccini’s masterpiece of lust, murder and power will be brought to life by NI Opera, and for the first time in over 100 years will accurately reflect how it was first stage with each Act taking place at a different location and the audience following the action on foot between each of the venues.

It is a prospect that the Dean of the Cathedral, Rev Dr William Morton is very much looking forward to as each of the three productions will begin in the Cathedral and will feature the Cathedral’s choirboys, who will be adding their voices to those of the international cast of players.

“This really is quite unique because it will be performed the same way it was in Rome where the story of the opera was based, and apparently it was performed in three different locations. So, from the Cathdral’s perspective the opera is being restored to it’s original format

Ahead of the production, NI Opera is staging a series of free workshops and masterclasses in the city to give the public a taster of the music and spectacle that comes with opera.

A spokesperson said: “NI Opera, which is funded by the Arts Council, hopes to bring opera to a wider audience across Northern Ireland and is therefore organising these events as an opportunity for the public to experience the art form, many for the first time.”

The stellar cast will include internationally-regarded Northern Ireland singer Giselle Allen, and the Mexican tenor Jesus Leon, and some of the best fine young sigers from Ireland will also be taking part.

If you have not yet booked your place then telephone 028 7126 4455 or log on at www.millenniumforum.co.uk and make your reservation.