BP Big Screens brings free opera live from Covent Garden to Duthie Park
08 July 2016
Dramatic narratives, reflective arias, impassioned duets and fiery choruses – including the world famous Anvil Chorus - are on offer with a special screening of The Royal Opera’s brand new production of Verdi’s Il trovatore at the Duthie Park, Aberdeen.
Aberdeen City Council in partnership with BP and the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, will stage the dramatic opera on Thursday 14 July as part of this summer’s BP Big Screen programme.
The screen will go live at 6.45pm with the curtain up and opera beginning at 7.15pm. The opera will run until approximately 10.30pm with one interval of 30 mins during the performance. During the interval there will be exclusive backstage footage, interviews and a chance to win DVDs.
Alex Beard, Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House, said: “Since 2000 the BP Big Screens have been a must-see in many people’s summer diaries and this year is no different. Thanks to the invaluable support of BP we are able to screen this brand new production of Il trovatore and showcase some of the world’s foremost talents in opera for free.”
Tim Smith, Vice President Communications & External Affairs, BP said: “BP is pleased to continue its backing for the BP Big Screens which has brought these free live relays from the Royal Opera House to Aberdeen since 2005”.
Councillor Marie Boulton said: “I’m delighted that BP Big Screens are returning to Aberdeen this year and it’s great to have this wonderful opportunity to enjoy opera for free on our doorstep.
“Whether you’re a big fan of opera or if this would be your first experience of it I would highly recommend all residents and visitors bring their picnic blankets and folding chairs to Duthie Park for this event. I’m sure you’ll recognise more of the music than you think you will.”
The opera is sung in Italian with English subtitles.
Picnics and portable seating are welcome in the park but no glassware, cans, barbecues or naked flames are allowed. A selection of hot and cold soft drinks and light snacks will be available to purchase.
The alcohol by-law on drinking in public places will be lifted between 6pm and 11pm however alcohol can only be consumed on the main grass area of the Duthie Park’
Entry to the Big Screen is via Polmuir Road or Riverside Drive. Parking is limited to the Riverside Drive car park so wherever possible please use public transport.
First bus Route 17 stops at Duthie Park.For bus timetable information visit www.firstgroup.com/aberdeen
Anyone coming along to the event should remember:
to dress appropriately for anticipated weather conditions; children must be accompanied by an adult; Aberdeen City Council reserves the right to refuse admission.