Sopranos to Awaken the Dead at Opera in the Ruins

Norfolk Island’s infamous ghosts will be serenaded by angelic choruses during the 15th annual Norfolk Island Opera in the Ruins Festival in the island’s historic convict ruins from February 23-27, 2009.

The headline act will be Brisbane’s boutique opera company Operatif, featuring soprano Jennifer Parish, baritone Stewart Cameron, mezzo Dorothy Williams and guest tenor Benjamin Fifita Makisi accompanied by pianist Lynne Sterling Jordan.

Providing an added attraction this year will be Australian husband and wife virtuoso pianists Max Olding and Pamela Page, who have graced major international concert venues in the USA, UK, Austria and Hong Kong. In addition the Queensland Pop Orchestra Trio under concert master Julie-Anne O’Reilly will offer a selection of string and cinema classics, ballads and operetta.

“Opera in the Ruins continues to be one of the island’s biggest events attracting quality acts and great audiences,” said Norfolk Island Tourism General Manager Terry Watson.

“It’s not every day you get the chance to listen to such stunning music in such a dramatic setting and visitors can take time out between concerts to relax on our beautiful beaches, snorkel in stunning Emily Bay, paddle kayaks around the rugged coastline, explore the specialty shops to unearth some treasures, feast on the catch of the day at a sunset BBQ fish-fry or take in a round of golf at our scenic golf course,” he added.

Norfolk Select has special ‘Opera in the Ruins’ holiday packages including return flights from Australia, taxes ex Australia, seven nights twin share accommodation, airport transfers on Norfolk, half-day island tour, car hire (excluding compulsory insurance) and a full Opera in the Ruins package comprising six music events, two dinners and two morning or afternoon teas. The package is available from $1585 per person from Brisbane, $1646 per person from Sydney and $1624 from Newcastle, with add-on flights available from other ports. Conditions apply. Departure tax an additional $30 per person. Call Norfolk Select toll-free on 1800 724 400 or visit www.norfolkselect.com.au.

For general information on Norfolk Island visit www.norfolkisland.nf