Vive la France

What a wonderful evening’s entertainment we had from “Opera Viva” when they presented us with a celebration of France and its music along with a hearty French Supper. The evening was apply named “Vive la France” and took place in a relaxed appropriately decorated venue sporting French flags and bunting. The programme was an eclectic mix of music with a French theme that highlighted compositions from composers such as Delibes, Gounod, Offenbach, Saint-Saens, Bizet, Messager, Gluck, Debussy, Poulenc, Cole Porter, Piaf & Louiguy and Schonberg & Boublil . The pieces performed for our enjoyment ranged from some well-known iconic arias from Operas such as “Carmen”, “Tales of Hoffman” and “Samson and Delilah” to numbers from “Les Miserable” and the contemporary songs “I love Paris”,  and “La Vie en Rose”. Overall we were treated to some splendid performances by a number of wonderful talented singers who were entertaining and very enjoyable throughout the evening. There were some outstanding voices and all the soloist sung very well with clarity of voice singing with confidence and enthusiasm, most of them appeared to be enjoying themselves immensely. The majority of pieces were sung in English however notes and translations were provided in the programme for the few that were performed in their original language. There were many highlights during the evening but it would be remiss of me to highlight them  as I do not wish to miss anyone out and all those who took part appeared to give their best, stepping up to the mark when called upon, all pulled together to make the evening a success. As well as solos there were some chorus numbers who produced a very nice sound.  However I should mention that when singing off copy it may be advisable to learn the words of the number especially when standing on the front row only a few feet from the audience, which was very noticeable especially in the Les Miserable chorus numbers with the result they were a little insecure. But this did not detract or effect the overall quality of the entertainment and my enjoyment of the evening. All the performers were supported and expertly accompanied by Robert Chesters and chorus numbers were securely conducted by Isobel Jenkins. This was a thoroughly enjoyable evening’s entertainment which I am sure was enjoyed by all who attended.

Congratulations must go to all the people involved in this lovely evening’s entertainment also thank you for the well prepared supper provided before the concert. Thank you for inviting my friend and myself and for making us very welcome.
 

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