An afternoon of opera in the Upper Hunter

Published on 22 July 2022

It’s not every day an afternoon of opera entertainment comes to Moonan Flat but on Saturday, June 25 you can expect just that.

Peta Blyth, soprano and founder of Opera in the Paddock, will entertain the community with her musical talents at the Moonan Flat Soldiers Memorial Hall from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

Joining Peta for the performance are talented performers, oboist Li Ling Chen and pianist Deidre Rickards.

Peta is a well-versed music performer and teacher with an extensive background in concerts and events.

Peta said she is looking forward to bringing her passion to the Upper Hunter.

“Ten or 12 years ago we came to Moonan for a performance so we’re looking forward to coming back,” said Peta.

“Yeah defiantly looking forward to it, it was a lovely atmosphere.”

An abundant programme has been planned for the event.

 “It’s a very varied programme and will include opera arias by Bellini, Mozart, Verdi, Massenet and Korngold with oboe solos by Dvorak and the famous Gabriel's Oboe from The Mission,” said Peta. 

“We’re looking forward to a great programme.”

In 2002, Peta and her husband Bill founded Opera in the Paddock, an event recognised for its professional quality of performance and iconic Australian bush setting.

Peta spoke of how these events began.

“I married a farmer and moved to a property, we had a lovely venue and thought we could do something there so that’s what we did,” she said.

“We did a lot of touring in small towns using professional regional performers too.” 

Peta says the regional communities enjoy the opera performances.

“Yes they do, once they come out and get over that little barrier they really enjoy it,” she said.

This is a free event and all community members are welcome to attend.

Bookings are essential. Reserve your spot today at https://bit.ly/3tlyTUL or contact Tash Taaffe on 0458 574 015 or [email protected] for any enquiries.