Last night we took Paul to see his first ever ballet at the Sydney Opera House. Two years ago he felt left out after Sarah and I went to see the Nutcracker together so this time he joined us to see the Australian Ballet production of Coppélia. I reasoned that even if he didn’t like the dancing he would enjoy the music (not to mention all the pretty girls with incredible legs).
Paul and I were going to take the ferry from Cremorne Point and sail across the harbour to meet Sarah outside the Opera House. Unfortunately, after a hot and humid day with a very high frizz factor, the biggest storm erupted just as we were about to leave so we took the less glamorous but drier option of a bus. We met Sarah and shared a bottle of fizz on the quayside before the performance.
Paul was not disappointed. As soon as the orchestra started playing the familiar music by Délibes he was happy and soon became engrossed in the rather silly and light hearted tale of Coppélia. I was enthralled by everything - the music, costumes, scenery and spectacular skill and athleticism of the dancers. We had a perfect view of the stage and the acoustics in the high-vaulted theatre were brilliant; we were sitting in one of those massive sails that the Sydney Opera House is famous for.
A wonderful night out and a beautiful memory for us to look back on.
The ballet is a special treat and to see it at the Opera House must have been more so. I have booked to see Sleeping Beauty in Feb nowhere near as glamorous as your venue, but still looking forward to it, even if it only the Playhouse in Northampton :)
ReplyDeleteIt was a fabulous experience Elaine. I loved every minute of it.
DeleteLady M adores those Sydney bay ferries, I think she'd spend all day on them. Good to hear that the acoustics in the SOH are good; I'd always wondered.
ReplyDeleteThe ferries are great fun. It was a shame we couldn't take one last night because it would have dropped us off almost outside the opera house.
DeleteOne of the must do experiences. My live ballet was closer to 50 years ago, the main memory was the noise that those lightweights made toeing their way around the stage. Mind you it was in Bournemouth and not the fabulous SOH!
ReplyDeleteYes, I'm always surprised at how noisy those pointe shoes are. Incredible how they stay up on their tippy toes.
DeleteWhy arent you on the way home?
ReplyDeleteChanged my mind. Not coming back.
DeleteHow marvellous to see such magical entertainment in the iconic opera house. As you say, a beautiful memory to treasure.
ReplyDeleteIt was a truly delightful experience.
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