It doesn’t take a pair of opera glasses to see that Opera and Ivory will be one of Shepparton Festival’s most striking events.
On Sunday, April 14, a private residence in Shepparton will soak up the sound fusion of opera, piano and cabaret delivered by powerhouse performers Allegra Giagu and Sally Whitwell.
Undoubtedly, Whitwell will bring a groundbreaking composition to the concert, given her global identity as a tunesmith and musician.
The pianist savant has been recognised with eight ARIA nominations and three wins throughout her career.
Giagu isn’t without her impressive accolades either.
At 11 years old, she made her debut at the Sydney Opera House before raising her voice in some of the world’s most prestigious theatres.
With pipes that seem to defy the laws of physics, Giagu will enchant audiences with her warm mezzo-soprano sound.
The pair had been apart for a decade, intensifying Giagu’s excitement for their upcoming concert, which she described as “the culmination of a journey”.
“It’s immersive and unexpected, yet strangely familiar,” she said.
“It’s about storytelling and doing whatever it takes to let it out and let it go.
“We invite our audience to make this story their own and to lean into humanity and humour as a balm for the soul.
“We will laugh and cry and hopefully come away feeling a little different.”
The afternoon promises classical and contemporary arrangements, tender storytelling, and beats of wicked humour.
Refreshments will also be instrumental in the event. Upon arrival, guests will receive a drink, and the Shepparton Festival bar will be open.
Post-performance, a cocktail afternoon tea will see grazing plates circulating and the artists conversing.
Meanwhile, the crooning jazz stylings of Shepparton local Sebastian Mathieson will flow through the perimeter to complement the afternoon’s entertainment.
Opera and Ivory is on Sunday, April 14, from 1pm to 4pm at a private residence at 209-211 Fryers St, Shepparton.
Tickets for Opera and Ivory are available for purchase online for $85 at https://sheppartonfestival.org.au/event/opera-and-ivory/
Please note that this event is for patrons aged 18 and over.
For more information and a full schedule of programs, visit https://sheppartonfestival.org.au/