Given the dearth of mainstream opera currently available to audiences in Brisbane, it is to the credit of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra that it regularly programs concerts that include opera, showcasing not only orchestral opera overtures, but opera choruses alongside major arias and duets from the principal artists.

The luxurious casting of this Opera Gala produced a very high vocal standard. Soprano Natalie Aroyan, mezzo-soprano Deborah Humble, tenor Diego Torre and baritone José Carbó, all experienced major artists, have sung extensively around the world and with orchestras and opera companies in Australia. They did not disappoint with their range of both solo arias and duets. Equally as impressive was the Brisbane Chorale, trained by Music Director Emily Cox, who contributed strongly to the overall success of the Gala. The program was exciting and stimulating, offering not only some perennial operatic favourites but also interesting, lesser-known pieces.

Opera GalaDiego Torre, Deborah Humble, Natalie Aroyan and José Carbó take a bow during the Queensland Symphony Orchestra's Opera Gala, June 2022. Diego Torre, Deborah Humble, Natalie Aroyan and José Carbó take a bow during the Queensland Symphony Orchestra’s Opera Gala, June 2022....