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What an Operatic Debut and Treat!

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The FIRST appearance on stage in an Opera Concert for this choral group blew audiences away – and rightly so.

The PE Gilbert and Sullivan Society hosted their 5th Opera concert since the inaugural concert in 2015.

Well known director and conductor Akhona Nkumanda approached the Society with a novel concept for this year’s concert. Nkhumanda has introduced some exceptional choral talent to the world of Opera and the ‘Love & War” presentation showcased these singers for the very first time on the operatic stage.

Here the group sing Libiamo from La Traviata by Italian Composer Giuseppe Verdi.

Libiamo from La Traviata (G. Verdi) - Directed and conducted by Akhona Nkumanda

“Libiamo ne’ lieti calici” (“Let’s drink from the joyful cups”) is a famous duet with chorus from Giuseppe Verdi’s La traviata (1853), one of the best-known opera melodies and a popular performance choice (as is this opera itself) for many great tenors. The song is a brindisi, a lively song that encourages the drinking of wine or other alcoholic beverages.

The duet is performed in the first act of the opera, during a late-night party at Violetta Valéry’s house. It is sung by Violetta and Alfredo Germont, a young man who is in love with her. Alfredo is convinced by his friend Gastone and by Violetta to show off his voice. He begins this drinking song, later joined by Violetta and the rest of the company

The piece is written in B-flat major, its time signature is 3/8, and the tempo is marked Allegretto, dotted quarter note. = 69.

After watching and listening to these ‘green’ opera singers I can only say that I was blown away by the talent and range that we have here in Gqeberha.

Well done to all for a wonderful performance.

The singers and talent presenting A Night at the Opera were:

  • Directed and conducted by: Akhona Nkumanda
  • Accompanist: Jabulile Ngowebo
  • Sopranos: Phumeza Myeki, Siphokazi Nondumo-Bhala, Vuyokazi Marcus, Sindiswa Kibi
  • Mezzos and Altos: Zikhona Teta, Linda Ngamlana, Luleka Mava, Nomlindo Bebeza, Phumeza Ndlazilwana
  • Tenors: Andile Maneli, Luthando Mahleba, Khanyisa Sidloyi, Luthando Siganga, Sipho Skade
  • Bass & Baritones: Zuko Stoto, Landula Hambile, Malibongwe Mgibe
  • Lighting Design: Mathew Hamilton
  • Lighting Operator: Hlumelo Dyantyi
  • Follow Spot Operator: Duwayne Witbooi
  • Sound Design/Operation: Duwayne Witbooi
  • Stage Manager: Mathew Hamilton
  • Production Management: Rose Cowpar
La Traviata
The FIRST appearance on stage in an Opera Concert for this choral group blew audiences away – and rightly so.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.