World-First Opera Project For Toowoomba

Toowoomba is to be one of eight regional communities involved in an  Opera Queensland world-first project that will give nearly 400 everyday people the opportunity to perform in the chorus of a brand new production of La
bohème.

‘Project Puccini’ is a hugely ambitious $2 million initiative, which will train 48 Queenslanders in each participating region to sing and act alongside OperaQ’s principal artists and Queensland Symphony Orchestra musicians in a professionally staged opera.
Auditions for Toowoomba adults and children to become a part of the ‘Empire Theatre Chorus’ were held from 17 to 19th March 2014.

Successful chorus members will then take part in a 10-week development program before performing in La bohème at Empire Theatre on 15 August. OperaQ will employ a local chorus master and rehearsal coordinator, and work with Empire Theatre and local sponsors to ensure the highest standard of performance and personal development opportunities for budding local artists.
Project Puccini aims to equip participants with improved music and drama skills, new social and creative networks, and an increased sense of community and wellbeing.

Known as the most romantic opera of all time, La bohème appeals to devotees and newcomers alike. Beginning on a snowy Christmas Eve in Paris, it tells the tale of Mimi’s love affair with the poet Rodolfo and their group of rent-dodging flatmates living and loving precariously on the edge of society.

Puccini’s beloved opera will be brought to life by award-winning theatre director Craig Ilott and internationally acclaimed designer Penny Challen.