Programme of Winter Activity Unveiled by Scottish Opera

Scotland’s national opera company, Scottish Opera, has unveiled a programme of digital and live performance as part of its 2020/21 Winter activity that includes filmed productions of Mozart’s Così fan tutte and Humperdinck’s Hansel and Gretel.

To mark the milestone of the 50th Anniversary of the Company’s Outreach and Education, Scottish Opera Young Company (SOYC) gives the world premiere of the new opera Rubble, created by composer Gareth Williams and writer/director Johnny McKnight. SOYC members are already meeting via Zoom to prepare for this new live production in July 2021 when they will work with a range of opera professionals. 

This specially commissioned work, that’s part horror, part black comedy set in the 1980s, takes inspiration from real-life events, and tells the story of a group of young people searching the debris of an old children’s home. Its lyrics are from Scottish theatre legend Johnny McKnight and direction by Roxana Haines with Chris Gray conducting and Shuna Scott Sendall as Soprano.

General Director Alex Reedijk said “It has been a difficult year for many in the arts. However, we have all continued to adapt and do what we do best, by bringing some much-needed entertainment to audiences. Scottish Opera is delighted to be able to continue doing so by offering a programme of exciting digital performances over the coming months. We also look forward to returning to the stage and welcoming audiences back into the theatre. We’re hopeful that we will be able to celebrate our pioneering Outreach and Education Department’s 50th anniversary with the planned live performances of Rubble in 2021. Since 1971, the Department has run countless projects, engaged with people in every corner of Scotland and encouraged meaningful and transformative experiences for all, no matter their age, background or ability.”

All productions, that are available to watch via Scottish Opera’s website, are being produced in line with government guidelines on social distancing at the time of filming and any planned live performances will be dependent on restrictions in place at the time.

Digital Release Dates as follows:

Così fan Tutte 13 December 2020

Hansel and Gretel January 2021

Live Performance Dates as follows:

Scottish Opera Young Company, Rubble

Glasgow 31 July and 1 August

Irene Brown