We sat down with co-director Joe O’Curneen who brings The Opera Locos to the Peacock Theatre, Sadler’s Wells from 8-11th May.
1. What is the show about?
The Opera Locos is a musical comedy featuring some of the world’s most famous arias, combined with a number of pop and rock hits from Whitney Houston to Mika. It’s a story about a troupe of five eccentric performers in search of love and acclaim, each character representing one of the five main voice types: tenor, mezzo, soprano, baritone and contratenor. Throughout the show they each reveal their hidden passions that will bring unpredictable and comedic consequences.
2. What can audience expect?
A truly unique experience. Physical theatre meets opera, meets comedy, meets Puccini, meets pop. One of a kind. Plus, no language barrier. It’s perfect for an international audience.
3. What is different about the show?
This is opera without the boring bits. An undeniably operatic experience, condensed, dynamic, fast pace and at times truly moving. Our aim with The Opera Locos was to merge our style of comic theatre with the likes of Puccini, Mozart and Bizet, adding a touch of pop and rock to give the show that added punch.
3. Are you excited about bringing it to the Peacock?
Well of course! The Peacock Theatre is a magnificent venue, and performing in the heart of London has always been a lifelong aspiration for the entire company.
4. Anything else you want to add?
The experience of merging physical comedy with opera has worked so well. The beauty and power of the arias are preserved and felt intensely, even in a comedic context. It works wonderfully with even the most demanding audiences: experts, melomaniacs, and … children.
Tickets can be bought here.