Broome-Hilda beckons

Broome’s longest continuously run music event will come of age this month with a joyous 20th anniversary gala celebration.

From intimate beginnings with a crowd of 250 at the Mangrove Hotel in 1993, Opera Under The Stars quickly became a much-loved date on Broome’s arts and social calendar and has, over the years, steadily grown its capacity and fan-base.

Even those who do not necessarily have a fondness for the genre have confessed to being blown away by their experience of the opera, just steps from Cable Beach.

Director Mary-Attracta Connolly said this was one of the keys to the continued success of such a unique event.

“I love that we can perform for people with varying tastes, with a sense of fun, rather than stiff and formal, and in this lovely, intimate venue,” Ms Connolly said.

“It’s so beautiful because the air is so clear, it’s such a pristine environment, and the beach is just there – you can hear the waves coast in, they gently ebb and flow during the concert, sometimes at the most appropriate times.”

Ms Connolly said local support had remained strong, in sponsoring and attending the event, with a terrific number of tourists extending their stay for the opera.

This year Opera Under The Stars will star Rachelle Durkin, who will be joined by the West Australian Opera Chorus, including soloists Penny Shaw, who featured in Australia’s Got Talent as part the duo ‘Divalicious’, Chinese tenor Jun Zhang, and baritone Robert Hoffman, who will sing local favourites from Bran Nue Dae.

Tickets are available at www.operaunderthestars.com.au, at Broome Visitor Centre or at Cable Beach Club Resort and Spa. Opera Under The Stars will be held on Saturday, August 25.