Trip down memory lane for opera lovers as exhibit opens

FIFTY years of memories of one of Waterford’s favourite cultural events was unveiled yesterday.

The exhibition of memorabilia from the 50-year history of the Waterford International Light Opera Festival is being held at the city’s Christchurch Cathedral until November 3.

Officially opened yesterday by city deputy mayor Cllr Cha O’Neill, the historic showcase is free to the public while a limited exhibition from the collection can be seen at the Theatre Royal vestibule until November 13 — when this year’s festival ends.

The collection includes some of Waterford’s musical greats — many of whom have gone on to achieve West End fame — and has also been put together in a retrospective programme for the Waterford International Festival of Music.

The 50th festival opens on Tuesday with West End star Rebecca Storm taking to the stage at the Theatre Royal. The 11-day programme features a series of concerts and events including an evening of Italian Opera accompanied by a rustic Italian banquet and seven nights of competitive light opera performances of a number of award-winning productions.

A Fringe Festival, Irish premieres and other special musical events will be held during the festival, culminating in an “Oscar-style” finale gala evening hosted by RTE’s Maura Derrane.