So this is Christmas...

So this is Christmas...

What a year it has been, with the official opening in March and now 35 shows later the Oamaru Opera House is closing for the Christmas break. Everyone has worked extremely hard from the executive team, staff and volunteers to make it such a successful year. Enjoy your break you deserve it.

To all patrons, thank-you for supporting the Oamaru Opera House in 2009. We look forward to seeing you next year for a great line-up of shows, events and meetings.

The OoH is now closed and will be open from 10am 11th January 2010. If you would like to book ticketdirect tickets over this period you still can at http://www.ticketdirect.co.nz/ 0800 4 ticket or the Oamaru i-Site.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from:

Richard
Viv
Stu
Gregg
and our Wonderful Volunteers.

Remember the Fiat?

Love it or hate it, everyone remembers the plastic round window sporting the Oamaru Borough Council emblem on the Opera House pre-restoration.

When the Opera House was restored the decision was made to replace the plastic emblem with the original nine pane window design that we have now. However it was also recognised that although not very old the plastic window held social importance and should be retained.

The plastic window has been in storage and has now been mounted inside the atrium stairwell of the new south wing addition to the Opera House. Other old signage is to be installed in this area and didactic panels are being prepared to give information about the signs. As the window was mounted crocked in it original position we thought it appropriate and a little humorous to do the same in its new position.

If you have any information about the history of the window we would love to here from you.

Music Hall Selling Fast

Music Hall is selling fast but there are still tickets available.

A box office hit in 2006, The Star and Garter Players return to make the Opera House an old time Music Hall again. Audience sing-alongs, 30 authentic songs, plus a fruity melodrama, "The Devil Within". With a guest appearance by Dame Kate Harcourt, " My Lords, Ladies and Gentlemen!" takes you back to the time when black-hearted villains (Boo!! Hiss!!) roamed the stage, threatening innocent maidens with a fate worse than death until, of course, they were finally foiled. (Bravo!! Hurrah!!). If merriment, music and a little bit of tearstained pathos is your idea of a jolly good show, then you should certainly book early for this jolly good show.

On Tuesday 1 December a very special production plays at the Opera House. Fresh from an acclaimed Sydney season, ‘mozart & ME’ is the life-story of Lorenzo Da Ponte, Mozart’s librettist.

This is a wonderful opportunity (opera-tunity?!) to see some real Opera in our Opera House. But this is more than just Opera and Lorenzo Da Ponte was much more than just a librettist!!! – he was a Jew who converted to Christianity, became a priest, was defrocked, played the violin in a Venetian brothel and who befriended Casanova! Da Ponte moved from country to country around Europe (often just in the nick of time..) and wrote the librettos for Mozart's Don Giovanni, Le Nozze di Figaro and Cosi Fan Tutte. This hilarious script will have you laughing aloud as well as enjoying the sumptuous music. Acclaimed Bass Damian Whiteley performs an amazing catalogue of Mozart/Da Ponte hits amongst many others (including Salieri, Martini, Martin y Soler, Paisiello). Nominated by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation as ‘Outstanding Newcomer’ Whiteley ,described by Australia’s Limelight Magazine as ‘Australia’s answer to Teddy Tahu Rhodes’, is rapidly carving out a stellar international career.Writer and director of ‘mozart and ME’, Melvyn Morrow has been acclaimed for his work with Australian Opera on updated lyrics for Gilbert and Sullivan performances at the Sydney Opera House, Mel also scripted the ABC simulcasts of the Sutherland-Horne-Bonynge Gala, A Masked Ball, and the ABC-Australian Opera Tribute to Dame Joan Sutherland and Richard Bonynge. More recently he has achieved huge success as co-author of the Australian musical smash-hits ‘SHOUT!’ and ‘Dusty’ (to be staged in Dunedin in 2010).
We do hope you can join us for this exceptional performance. As one reviewer wrote of the Sydney production: ‘ …after seeing Damian Whiteley in Melvyn Morrow’s ‘mozart & ME’ we have deleted him from our list of successful singers and opened a GENIUS category!’

The Topp Twins, A Topp Night!

Well, they were a sell out and a show which everyone enjoyed. It was 100 years of the top twins and most likely their last New Zealand Tour. The show was fantastic and everyone enjoyed themselves. With a little bit of audience interaction the locals got in on the act. I wonder if Richard will ever be the same again? Shelly and Phil had the night off ushering and were in fine form playing Camp Mother and Camp Leaders games. It was a Topp night.

The Top Twins finished the night off with a signing. Have a look at the photos and video of Donna's dogs having a sing along with The Topp Twins.

Donna getting her skirt signed

Opera House Encore Staff

Don't forget to keep on looking to see what's coming up so you can book early. www.oamaruoperahouse.co.nz www.ticketdirect.co.nz

"Swan Lake" What a Show!!!

Swan Lake presented by The Imperial Russian Ballet.

All the seats were booked, and it was the first time we have had a full house in The Whitestone Contracting Auditorium since The OOH re-opened.


What a night! Everyone arrived nice and early to have a drink before the show. The theatre doors closed at 8 and the lights went out. The music started and the curtains opened. The night was filled with magic in air as the dancers tip-toed around the stage. It was a performance that left everyone speechless. It was the first time many people in Oamaru had seen a ballet in their life, I will guarantee it wont be their last.



So a friendly reminder... If you don't wont to be disappointed by missing out on a ticket, book early at The Oamaru Operahouse, www.oamaruoperahouse.co.nz, www.ticketdirect.co.nz or call us on

03 433 0770 or toll free 0800 4 Ticket.

So much is happening at The OOH

Yesterday row A, B and C went in in The Whitestone Contracting Auditorium. More seats but still not enough for Swan Lake and The Top Twins which are both sold out

.

On Friday...Presenting the Summer 2009 Fashion Show designed with the everyday woman, man and child in mind. This event showcases the latest offerings from labels such as Chalky Digits, Icebreaker, Marmot, Under Armour, Peak XV and Keen Footwear. The garments presented in the Summer 2009 Fashion Show are all top quality and only just fresh for the summer season, come and be some of the first to see the 'newest of the new'.

So another busy week for all of us at The OOH.

Jade String Quartet

Formed in 2003, Jade String Quartet is NZ's hottest new instrumental ensemble, with its members all players in the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

Jade has already established itself as a musical force to be reckoned with, through many brilliant live concerts, and have recorded a Live CD which highlights the groups ability to passionately perform works of great magnitude and depth. Eclectic violinist Miranda Adams ( from Vivo and Bravura fame), is well-known throughout NZ as an exciting live performer of dazzling virtuosity, and Associate Concertmaster with APO. She is joined by fellow Kiwi William Hanfling (co-violin), Sub-Principal player in the APO. Robert Ashworth, prizewinning violist from Canada and Principal viola of the APO is in much demand as a solo, chamber and orchestral player throughout NZ. German born cellist Claudia Price brings her International experience from London and Berlin to further enhance the group's sound.

Jade’s repertoire ranges from early Baroque to present day, including several NZ commissions and quirky arrangements of modern music.

Book at usual Ticket Direct outlets.

Oct 31st 7:30pm in the Otago Daily Times InkBox

Summer Fashion Show

Presenting the Summer 2009 Fashion Show designed with the everyday woman, man and child in mind. This event showcases the latest offerings from labels such as Chalky Digits, Icebreaker, Marmot, Under Armour, Peak XV and Keen Footwear. The garments presented in the Summer 2009 Fashion Show are all top quality and only just fresh for the summer season, come and be some of the first to see the 'newest of the new'.

A goody bag will be waiting for you on arrival and an array of spot prizes will be awarded during the evening. Garments will be available for purchase on the night including some very special one night only offers.

So for a brilliant night out of fashion and shopping come to the Summer 2009 Fashion Show at the Oamaru Opera House. This event is a fundraiser supporting the tremendous work of the Lower Waitaki Playcentre. Come and join in the fun and see first hand the latest in summer fashion 2009.

Book at usual Ticketdirect outlets. General admission. Cash bar operating.

Skin Tight

Charged with intensity and passion, Skin Tight is a story that will stay with you for a long time to come.

Tom and Elizabeth share the tale of their lives together through triumph and loss, joy and pain.

In the rustic setting of rural south Canterbury post war, they delight in the trivial things and mourn the greatest losses of all. The audience is gripped from the outset by a relationship that is at once tempestuous, touching, amusing and utterly engaging.

Inspired by Dennis Glover’s classic poem, The Magpies, Gary Henderson’s stirring opus of yearning and memory won a Fringe First Award at Edinburgh.

This masterpiece of New Zealand theatre is humorous, poignant and moving, an experience rich with sensuality and emotion.

Share in a timelessly passionate and powerful love story. Of the recent Court theatre season in Christchurch the reviewer said :

“The actors inhabit their roles as if they knew no other life. Sia Trokenheim is lithe and spontaneous as Elizabeth. Her total conviction is matched by a beautifully judged performance from Matt Hudson as Tom. Both have the ability and control to refine their roles with telling detail.” Lindsay Clark, theatreview.org.nz

Note: This Production contains nudity

NZ Deer Stalkers Asoc. national Conference

The Grand Foyer sprouting heads

Age is just a number & mine is unlisted

Life begins at 40 and so does Rebound. The Company celebrates the experience of 9 seasoned dancers. Bringing audiences a vibrant, sophisticated and entertaining evening of dance. The show includes contemporary dance, flamenco and jazz and feature works by well known choreographers Sheryl Robinson and Fleur de Thier. This show is a great introduction to contemporary dance and yet still inspirational for even the most seasoned dancer. With age comes liberation. Come and be inspired.

Waged $15 plus booking fee
Unwaged $10 plus booking fee
Tickets available from Tickedirect outlets.

Kelvin Cruickshank- Soul Food Show

With the outstanding success and popularity of TV2’s award winning series "Sensing Murder", Kelvin Cruickshank has been literally swamped with people wanting to see him. For this reason, he has decided to introduce a series of exclusive evenings that will help to reach out and touch more people at once. The Kelvin Cruickshank- Soul Food Show will simply be Kelvin working with spirit.

This show is R18 and Tickets are available from usual Ticketdirect outlets.

NZTrio Comming in July

The internationally acclaimed ensemble NZTrio has earned a reputation for surprising and dazzling their audiences. Violinist Justine Cormack, cellist Ashley Brown and pianist Sarah Watkins have impressed music lovers both at home and abroad, in countries as far flung as Brazil, the US and UK, China, Korea and Indonesia. In this performance, NZTrio will celebrate the anniversary of Haydn and captivate listeners with some exotic sounds from China and NZ, including their latest commission from Christchurch-based Chinese born composer Gao Ping.

Tickets for this performance are $19.90 plus booking fee available from usual Ticketdirect outlets.

Great Winter Warm up deal!

Here is a great deal to chase away the winter blues and enjoy a night of comedy. The Lady Bunch is performing at the Oamaru Opera House Saturday June 13th. Comics Irene Pink, Michelle A'Court and Justine Smith are top New Zealand entertainers and have a great show lined up. And to encourage you to venture into the winter night we have cranked up the heating and have a steaming glass of complementary mulled wine ready for you. That's three hilarious comics a glass of mulled wine and an evening of laughs for only $19.90 plus booking fees!
Make sure you book now, this event is in the O.D.T. InkBox and seats are strictly limited.

Latest Show dates

You heard it here first- all shows on sale now!!!

Ed Byrne Tour - Irish stand up comic
May 23 7:30 pm

Amazing Discoveries- Lecture series
May 26,27,29,30 7pm

Andrew Newton- International Hypnotist
June 10 7:30pm

The Lady Bunch- Stand up comedy
June 13 7:30pm

NZ Trio- Concert
Jul 9 7:30pm

The Royal Dunedin Male Choir- Choral Concert
Jul 25 7:30pm

The Pioneers- Folk Music/ Theatre
Aug 20 7:30pm

The Topp Twins- Comedy/ Music
Oct 21 8pm

Book Now!!!
Internet: www.ticketdirect.co.nz
phone: 03 4330770
in person: Oamaru Opera House 10am- 4pm weekdays and 1 hour prior to events

72nd Oamaru Performing Arts Festival

The Opera House has been a buzz this weekend with the 72nd Oamaru Performing Arts Society (inc) Annual Festival.

From the early hour of the morning till late at night hundreds of local and regional performers have been competing.

Everything from highland dance, tap , ballet, speech, drama orchestral and more has had an airing using both the main theatre and the O.D.T InkBox.

Here are some behind the scenes images of the event.

The Royal Dunedin Male Choir

Image from 2005 Vice Regal Concert in Dunedin

Hot news! The Royal Dunedin Male Choir is Coming to Oamaru!!

July 25th 2009 7:30pm

With origins that can be traced back to 1878 the Royal Dunedin Male choir have a rich history of providing quality choral entertainment to all who are lucky enough to see them perform.

The Royal Dunedin Male Choir has entertained numerous royalty and dignitaries and performed at civic celebrations and key turning points in history.

Now Oamaru Audiences have the opportunity to see the Royal Dunedin Male Choir perform and the refurbished Oamaru Opera House.

The concert programme will be formed from the wide and varied repertoire of the choir. For more information on the Royal Dunedin Male Choir visit there website at www.rdmc.org.nz



Not only is this a great show but it is very reasonably priced meaning that it is an ideal opportunity to get the family together and have a great night out at the Oamaru Opera House.

Book at ticketdirect

Amazing Discoveries May 26th -30th

Unveiling the secrets of the ancient world including the famous Valley of the Kings, the tomb of Tutankhamen, the mighty Pryamids of Giza and many more.

From critically aclaimed photographer and presenter, David Currie comes the Amazing Discovery series over several nights. This insightful photographic showcase begins with an intriguing journey into Egypt, Jordon, Jerusalem and the scriptures.

Educational and exciting this fancinating event is ideal for all the family.

Give Mum John Rowles this Mother"s Day

Stuck for a Mothers Day gift????

How bout a ticket for mum to see John Rowles live in concert . New Zealand's signing legend is performing at the OoH on May 14th 2009 so get online to www.ticketdirect.co.nz to get a ticket now or come in and visit the Oamaru Opera House and ask about the grab-a-seat promotion for great prices on excellent seats!!

Coffee and Company coffee bar

New to the Oamaru Opera House....

The Coffee and Company coffee bar.

Open Monday - Friday 10am to 4pm

Everyone most welcome.