Gig Reviews

As the sun started to set over picturesque Temple Newsam Park, throngs of people made their way through the gates like sheep being herded down a steep hill. Dressed in everything from Motorhead T-shirts to ball gowns and armed with bottles of champagne and cans of lager.

Young opera fans

I know opera is not everyone's cup of tea, and is, generally speaking, seen by most people as music for men in cravats and women in twinsets. However, everyone from girls out on their hen night, young children in pushchairs to hardened opera fans, are out in force - determined to enjoy the spectacle. I even heard tell of an entire street from nearby Colton who make it an annual outing, where they all congregate outside their houses and journey down together - bringing food, drink, chairs and tables!

The annual free event, which has now been running for 17 years, is always popular. Tickets always go very fast and this year is no exception, with all of the 50,000 free tickets snapped up in record time. I managed to grab a few words with Councillor John Proctor who is the Executive Member for Leisure at Leeds City Council, and is the politician responsible for the event. I asked him how important free events such as this are for Leeds.

"We're very aware that with the recession, free events such as this are incredibly important for Leeds and beyond. We are very lucky to have the Halle orchestra and some fantastic solo artists here tonight and everyone out there seems to be having a good time."

The Halle Orchestra

Having had a quick walk around to soak up the atmosphere, I spoke to a few people in the audience. Elliot Scholey, aged 15, from Colton said: "It's not usually my scene, but I'm enjoying the atmosphere and the whole experience, everyone has made a massive effort with their candelabras and picnics, and the stage looks amazing all lit up like that."

After trying furiously to find my family, who I had come with, I finally managed to locate them amongst the many thousands of wicker baskets and tartan rugs laden with elaborate feasts. As the mood settled and the clinking of a thousand glasses stopped, a huge roar went up as the Halle Symphony Orchestra took to the stage.

The Halle are one of the world's greatest orchestral treasures, receiving critical acclaim both here and abroad. Originally founded in 1858 by conductor Charles Halle in Manchester, they were recently awarded a South Bank Show classical music award.

The first half of the evening was underway and everyone was clapping along and cheering. As the music stopped, there was a slight hush followed by immense applause as international star tenor Alfie Boe took to the stage to sing a popular piece by Donizetti.

Next up was soprano Natasha Marsh, who cuts a statuesque figure at 5'10" and dispels any pre-conception of female opera singers. As she sang the piece from Puccini's tragic La Boheme, the audience seemed mesmerised by her. As the interval drew near, I quickly finished my glass of wine and headed backstage to catch a few words with both Natasha and Alfie. The music died down and the orchestra filtered off stage, all hurrying for a quick loo break.

Natasha Marsh & Alfie Boe

I asked Alfie Boe how performing at events such as Opera in the Park differ from performing in a more traditional venue: "It's very different on so many levels. Performing in opera houses in full costume and in character means you are interacting with other members of the cast and living the role. Whereas events like this means you are singing to the audience and the atmosphere is very different. I started making albums for this very reason, I wanted to bring the music I love to a wider audience, and events like this help to bring people of all ages together for a great night."

Natasha Marsh felt that Opera was finally crossing over to a mainstream audience: "I think that events like this certainly help, it's great to see all the mums, dads, grannies, children and even dogs out there! I feel that Opera was written to be enjoyed by all, it moves you, it's passionate and is written to engage with all types of people."

Interviews over, I rushed back to my seat and enjoyed the rest of the evening by cracking open a couple of beers and drinking in the music. The great thing about classical music for me, especially seeing it live, is it does move you, it is powerful, just as much as seeing any live band. The sound of a live orchestra is a unique thing, which I thoroughly recommend whether you like classical music or not.

After another hour or so of great music, with arias and duets by both Alfie and Natasha, as well as a rousing performance of Verdi's 'Anvil Chorus' by the Leeds Festival Chorus, the night started to draw to a close. People began downing the last of the champers and packing away the picnic baskets, with just enough time for one last masterpiece as Alfie Boe sang Puccini's classic aria, 'Nessan Dorma'.

Happy, and a little merry, the crowd stumbled back to their respective car parks in dribs and drabs, almost reluctant to leave after such a good night. Maybe they'll still be there when the event happens next year. I, for one, will definitely be there.

Opera In The Park took place on Saturday 25 July 2009 at Temple Newsam Park.