Published: July 2, 2012
Burnham-On-Sea singers and dancers to star in Somerset opera

Singers and dancers from Burnham-On-Sea will be taking part in a specially commissioned opera in Somerset later this month.

Burnham singers Lewis Coleman, Mary Crowe, Kate Gibson, Fran Bowkett and Julian Plested are making final preparations for performances of 'Eleanor Vale', which will take place near Wedmore on 11th, 13th and 14th July.

The opera is a thriller set in a Somerset village at the turn of the last century, with Somerset-born professional singer Sarah Minns playing the mysterious and alluring principal character of Eleanor.

Local talent is also well represented: well-known local contralto Francesca Bowkett will take the part of Dorothy, with Lewis Coleman, Mary Crowe, Kate Gibson and Julian Plested joining the chorus.

Furthermore, two local dancers are also involved in the project: Hayley Barker, a graduate of the Northern School of Contemporary Dance and Ceri Plested, currently studying for a degree in Dance at the University of Wales in Cardiff, were approached by director Marylin Johnstone to be the opera’s choreographers.

Julian Plested, who plays the part of a farm labourer and cider maker, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "This will be a completely unique experience and an evening to remember. The story is exciting, the characters are vivid and attractive and the music tuneful and accessible. It’s a far cry from the stuffy and posh image of opera and I urge people to give it a try. I don’t believe they will be disappointed!"

Tickets for Eleanor Vale are still available and can be purchased via the website.

Pictured: Burnham singers Lewis Coleman, Mary Crowe, Kate Gibson, Fran Bowkett and Julian Plested prepare for a rehearsal of Eleanor Vale; and choreographers Hayley Barker (left) and Ceri Plested (right) put chorus members through their paces