Relive the magic of Phil Opera Fest, a celebration of Wagner and his operatic masterpiece Tristan und Isolde. From captivating lectures to community singalongs, culminating an extraordinary final performance, this gallery captures the spirit of an unforgettable festival.
Phil Opera Fest began on Wednesday 31 July with a fascinating lecture by Dr David Chisholm, Head of Music at the University of Auckland. Entitled I Love You to Death: Sex and Consequence in Tristan und Isolde, Dr Chisholm's presentation delved into the passionate and complex world of Wagner's legendary opera.
On Sunday 4 August, all were welcome to take part in our Sunday Singalong with Wagner. Attending participants learnt Wagner's iconic Wedding March from Lohengrin, with the guidance of experienced choral conductor Catrin Johnsson, pianist and repetiteur David Kelly, and a troupe of NZ Opera’s finest singers.
Phil Opera Fest culminated in an unforgettable evening with Opera in Concert: Tristan und Isolde, featuring New Zealand tenor Simon O'Neill as Tristan and renowned soprano Ricarda Merbeth as Isolde. It was a captivating and powerful performance, and an indisputable highlight of the Auckland Philharmonia's 2024 Season.
