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It’s impossible to describe what goes into a typical W11 Opera production — because there’s no such thing as a typical W11 Opera! Each production is different, and each one draws on the hard work and talent of everyone involved.
But if you want to get some idea of what goes on behind the scenes, the gallery below will help. Here you can see photographs taken while W11 Opera was putting together three recent shows, ANTiphony, All in the Mind, and Game Over.
Auditions And Rehearsals
(Click on the preview icons for full size pictures)
Auditions take place in early September. You need to prepare a short solo song, to be memorised and sung unaccompanied. You sing to three or four people, including the Music Director. Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
There is also an informal drama workshop. Auditions are not scary, they're fun! Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
The following Monday rehearsals begin in St. James’s Church. Everyone is anxious to learn about the production. Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
You are given your part, assigned to a group with other girls and boys of your own age, and you meet your Group Mother - the person who will look after you for the next 12 weeks – and give you drinks and snacks at each rehearsal! Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
You get to know the Production Team. |
In no time you have learnt the first number. |
Sometimes you rehearse in small groups in the backroom of the church... |
...and you learn dance routines... |
...whilst others practice round the piano.. |
There’s often time to fit in a bit of homework... |
...or just play cards with friends. |
Final Rehearsal Period
(Click on the preview icons for full size pictures)
Rehearsals continue in the church whilst the set is being erected... Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
...and the final pieces of the set are painted. |
Wigs are tried on... Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
Costumes are fitted... |
...with the sewing team hard at work at the back of the church. Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
Before you know it, you are rehearsing the finale and curtain calls. Photograph © Andrew Crowley. |
Local houses are used as changing rooms... |
...and on the first Saturday in December two performances are given in St. James’s church. |
At The Britten Theatre
(Click on the preview icons for full size pictures)
A week later finishing touches are being made to the set in the Britten theatre... |
...everyone gets into costume in the dressing rooms backstage.. |
It is time for make-up... |
...and wigs. |
Everyone helps each other. |
There may be time to relax... |
...and chat with friends. |
The Music Director comes round with notes for everyone... |
...and there is time for a last minute brief from the Stage Director... |
...and a final practice... |
...before the Dress Rehearsal begins. |
