'Figaro, Figaro, Figaro!!!!!'

Date: Friday 5 June 2009

As everyone knows, Canterbury Cathedral is in considerable need of financial support, and a whole range of events is taking place to help to raise revenue for its upkeep and maintenance. One such event took place on the first Saturday of half-term when the Deanery garden played host to over 220 guests who came to enjoy the sounds of Mozartian opera, - in this case 'The Marriage of Figaro'.

The production was the brainchild of St Edmund's music teacher Penelope Martin-Smith, who, as a professional singer in her own right, had long dreamed of directing grand opera. She persuaded Master of the Choristers, Dr David Flood, to act as her musical director, and he assembled an orchestra, who, under his baton, offered superb 'backing' to a team of singers including 'Peps' herself, her son and ex-Head Chorister, George, former School Captain Annalisa Flood, and the longest serving of the Cathedral lay clerks, the doyen of the bass line, Duncan Perkins.

And it proved to be a fantastic evening for all: the weather stayed fine - if not warm!, and the audience thrilled to the familiar melodies, arias, and story line. A simple set - thanks to Meadow Grange Nurseries for their supply of pots and plants - simple lighting - almost within reach of stagehands Knight and Inscoe!, lay behind a truly professional performance from all. Two hours flew by, as did the bats from the Deanery eaves.

Many thanks to all who gave their time, talents and energies to the fruition of this project. Rumour has it that such was its popularity a reprise may be taking place later in the month - June 20th? And most thanks of all to Robert Willis, for allowing the use of his beautiful and spacious garden, and to the team who created the project. Well done, everyone!