Singing the praises of Nelson Opera in the Park

Posted by Nelson City Council on 15 February 2010

Feedback from Saturday night’s Nelson Opera in the Park is reinforcing the free entry and new sea side venue as a winning formula.

Although attendance numbers are yet to be finalised, it’s expected the crowd number will break all previous records.

Nelson Mayor Kerry Marshall says what really impressed him was the programme catered to all tastes. “The audience was mesmerised by the performers and the magnificent sunset which framed the venue. A highlight for me was the tribute to Sealord, by Whirimako Black and Richard Nunns, set against a backdrop of images from previous Opera in the Park events. It was fitting to acknowledge the company’s support for 12 years.”    

Sophie Kelly Nelson City Council Festivals Producer says despite a wet start to the day, the afternoon and evening were sublime for the show, which featured a varied line up of performers, proving popular across all ages.

“While there were some concerns before the event about car parking, there were still spaces available inside the secure area. Encouraging people to catch the free buses obviously worked well, and the team is now looking at the reasons why there were some delays with the pick ups at the end of the night.”

“The pack in pack out policy worked extremely well with the crowd accepting the responsibility and the total absence of rubbish bins, leaving only footprints at the venue.”

“The quieter fire works display in consideration of the animals at nearby Natureland still provided a spectacular finale as a backdrop to Ravel’s Bolero and were a fitting ending to a fabulous evening.”

Due to the success of Opera in the Park, new principal sponsor BioPaints has already committed to supporting the event again in 2011, with free entry.