Phase two of Lewisham’s Urban Opera launches on 29th January
Phase two of Lewisham’s Urban Opera launches on 29th January at the Green Man, Beckenham with the first of our Spring community workshops – all Lewisham people are welcome!
Workshops are fun and creative, involving song, stories, performance and puppetry. We are also looking for help with set and costume design and making, lighting, puppet-making and more. Everyone can play a part in creating a community opera celebrating Lewisham and its people.
Six schools are involved in a parallel programme, which will all come together in a joyful celebratory performance for the 2022 Lewisham borough of culture, bringing opera back to the people!
Charity Music and Theatre For All is embarking on phase two of its Lewisham Opera programme, building on last year’s community workshops, and schools programme. The project aims to reflect the Lewisham community in all its diversity, reaching those who would not usually get involved in arts projects, and those who face challenges or feel isolated.
The project is led by innovative and award-winning musician and stage director, Thomas Guthrie. Tom works with diverse groups through text and music to deliver powerful and aspirational story telling for all. Tom says:
“I am so excited by what the schools and community have achieved to date and I can’t wait for the next phase. The workshops have brought together Lewisham people of all ages and backgrounds to explore stories and memories in fun and creative ways, and there is room for so many more. It’s all about finding voice, about regeneration across generations, communal creativity, resurgence, revolution, and hope. The vision of a spectacular celebration of Lewisham and bringing opera back to the people is really starting to take shape”
One participant commented: ‘I have loved being involved with the workshops. I like the variety of things we have done. I love the anticipation of what’s next. Everyone has been so friendly and welcoming to all involved. I’m thrilled to be a part of it. It’s been a project to really lift the spirits.”
Get Involved
Want to get involved? Workshops run from 29th Jan – 12th Feb, and 26th Feb – 12 March. They are free and open to all. See MTFA website for further details.. Can’t make the workshops but interested in getting involved? We want to hear from you! Call MTFA on 07395 041301 or email team@musicandtheatreforall.org