WESLEY of Warragul’s Simply Music program will be putting on an Italian Opera this month, including a slide show with a backdrop to songs by famous Italian composers. The audience’s Sunday afternoon will end in pleasure, knowledge and satisfaction – a musical Reader’s Digest.
More Than Opera (MTO) is Wesley of Warragul’s partner, with 12 years’ experience sharing opera with region.
Robert Barbaro is from Melbourne and his father is a prominent member of the Italian community.
He made his debut with MTO while studying law but is currently devoting himself entirely to singing, as a Dame Nellie Melba Opera Trust scholar.
David Kram last performed at Wesley of Warragul before the building was restored, with his Victorian College of the Arts opera students.
And the songs? Three hundred years of Italian music, including favourites like La donna e` mobile (from Verdi’s Rigoletto) and Che gelida mania from Puccini’s La boheme.
There will also be interesting stories told throughout the night, such as which composer who moved to Dublin was the real author of the old song ‘Caro mio ben? What’s the meaning of ‘boiling spirits’ in Alfredo’s aria from Verdi’s La Traviata? Armed with this knowledge, you could even get on QI! If not – Robert’s voice is enough!
The show will be held at Wesley of Warragul, 62 Victoria Street, Warragul on Sunday 28 July. Doors open at 1.45pm for a 2.15 start and bookings can be made at www.wgac.com.au or on 03 5624 2456. Adult tickets are $30, concession are $25, children up to 25 years are $18 and children 14 and under are free of charge.
