Live opera performances are popping up across south London in a bid to bring the art form to people who may not get to experience it otherwise.
From cafés to libraries, unexpected venues across Merton, Croydon and Wandsworth are being transformed into intimate opera stages throughout July and August by Baseless Fabric Theatre.
“It’s been wonderful seeing the reaction of people who didn’t know they were going to be experiencing a bit of opera,” said Joanna Turner, director of the Wimbledon-based troupe’s modern reimagining of The Elixir of Love.
“There were kids with their mouths wide open, not believing the sounds coming out of our performers’ mouths.”
“It’s not what you expect when you’re coming in for a glass of rosé,” said Cat Wellington, who ended up with a front row seat to an unexpected opera performance at The Charles Holden pub in Colliers Wood while catching up with a friend.
“It was mental; brilliant, but mental,” she told the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
The performers, all trained opera singers and musicians, want to break down barriers and bring opera to new audiences, especially children and families enjoying the summer holidays.
Ms Turner, who reworked the opera for a modern audience, said shock and surprise were key to street opera.
“You can’t do a dress rehearsal for street opera. It all depends on what can happen on the day.
“It’s like a flashdance, but for opera.”
The group’s first performance in Colliers Wood began inside a supermarket before moving on to a pub and finishing in the foyer of Colliers Wood Library.
Patrick and Jessica Murphy said they had seen Baseless Fabric’s previous performances across London, but had no idea they would be seeing another one with their young child.
“It’s just such a nice thing to have in our town,” said Mrs Murphy.
Baseless Fabric’s performances are “for people who might not otherwise get to experience them, or who simply need a little moment of awe in their day”.
The troupe will perform street opera until 10 August.
