EVENT: Don Giovanni And Werther – Sempre Opera in Concert
DATES: July 28
VENUE: Johannes Stegmann Theatre, Secunda

ELIZABETH Lombard will be directing Don Giovanni And Werther for Sempre Opera’s production. Lombard is a mezzo-soprano with a repertoire that includes both Second Lady and Third Lady in Mozart’s Die Zauberflöte, as well as  smaller roles, such as Alisa in Donizetti’s Lucia Di Lammermoor;  Giovanna in Verdi’s Rigoletto, and Mamma Lucia in Mascagni’s Cavelleria Rusticana.

Not a first-time director, Lombard says she is excited by the opportunity. The demands of
directing, she says, are very different from those a singer experiences.

“As a director, you work not only on one character but all characters and their interactions with each other.  You have to allow for individual artistic expression within the framework of the vision for the production,” she says.

Lombard describes  opera as a combination of the dramatic aspect of a theatre drama with that of the musical aspect of a recital.

 She says it’s possible to compare South African opera productions with those from Europe and
America, while marvelling at the greatness of productions from La Scala and the Met.

    “South Africa is blessed with a wealth of opera talent and that is where Sempre Opera comes in –  creating opportunities for singers to perform and gain the experience that is essential for growing opera
as an art form in the country.”

Opera has always been known for lavish productions with spectacular sets, costumes and lighting. 

As a non-profit organisation, Lombard admits that Sempre Opera has none of this. 

“What we do have is a group of excellent singers with passion and enthusiasm.”

Sempre Opera was founded by tenor Stéfan Louw and its members come from all walks of life. When not cast as singers, they fulfil other roles for the production.

  Tickets are R120 for adults, R90 for pensioners and students, and can be purchased at Computicket.  Bookings are open. 

For more information call
 Marisa on 082-878-6190 or visit  www.sempreopera.co.za.