Opera Comes to Cornwall: Tête à Tête Brings Unique Productions to the Minack Theatre and Beyond

Cornwall is set to experience a blend of traditional and contemporary opera this September, as the outlandish opera company Tête à Tête brings two exciting performances to the region. Based in Cornwall, Tête à Tête specialises in showcasing contemporary productions and composers, offering a fresh take on the world of opera.

A Night of Farce and Feminism: The Boatswain’s Mate

On the 10th and 12th of September, the iconic Minack Theatre in Porthcurno, Penzance, will host Tête à Tête’s production of The Boatswain’s Mate. This captivating opera, written by suffragette Ethel Smyth, promises a night of enchanting music and playful scheming by the sea.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Minack cliffs, this tale revolves around a happy widow, a lovesick boatswain, and a misguided plot to stage a fake burglary in hopes of winning her heart. Combining elements of folk music and opera, The Boatswain’s Mate is a farcical story sure to entertain audiences of all ages.

Following the success of their magical production of The Firework Maker’s Daughter at the Minack Theatre in 2022, Tête à Tête is thrilled to return with this new production. This performance comes shortly after their Cornish tour of Fault Lines with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra earlier in March 2024, marking another milestone in their dedication to bringing opera to local audiences.

For more information and tickets, visit the Tête à Tête website.

Opera for the Little Ones: Madame Chandelier’s Opera Party for Kids

Families and young audiences are in for a treat with Madame Chandelier’s Opera Party for Kids. This interactive opera experience will be held at two locations in Cornwall: on the 13th of September at St Merryn Church and on the 14th of September at Coronation Park in Porthleven.

Madame Chandelier’s Opera Party offers an engaging introduction to opera, featuring some of the genre’s greatest hits. Children will have the opportunity to learn about various opera characters, from an evil queen who sings way too high to a princess who can’t stop crying. The party promises surprises, fun, and a chance for kids to experience opera in an entirely new way.

This production has received high praise from critics, with The Observer calling Madame Chandelier “smart, empathetic, and capable of phenomenal singing.” The Scotsman described the experience as “infectiously bonkers,” while Broadway Baby hailed it as a showcase of a “true diva.”

To find out more or to secure your place at this unique event, visit the Tête à Tête website.

Don’t Miss Out on This Operatic Adventure

With these two distinct performances, Tête à Tête is offering something for everyone, whether you’re an opera aficionado or just looking for a fun family outing. Mark your calendars for these dates and experience opera like never before in the heart of Cornwall.