How long have you been a supporter at OHP?
A relatively short time. I came to my first OHP production (HMS Pinafore) in 2022 and became a member in November 2022.

What made you originally want to become a supporter, and what keeps you supporting us?
In the current climate of public funding being reduced or withdrawn completely I was interested to find an opera company which does not rely on public funding. OHP seemed to be the ideal for me; in London (where I live), a high quality of performances and that stage – amazing!

Do you have a favourite Opera Holland Park memory?
Opera-wise it has to be last season’s fantastic production of Ruddigore which I thoroughly enjoyed; non-opera-wise it has to be the 2023 Gala which was a truly memorable occasion.

Is there an opera that you haven’t seen on our stage that you’d like to see?
Where do I start? There are so many and I’ve only seen six so far. If I narrowed it down to three they would probably be La traviata, Lucia di Lammermoor and The Magic Flute

Why do you believe it is important to be supporting the arts these days?
I think it is clear that we will never see the levels of public funding of the Arts that we have seen previously. If we, the opera-loving public, want to see this cherished art-form carry on into the future it is vital that those who can provide the necessary support in terms of membership, donorship or just plain buying tickets for the shows.

What would you say to someone considering becoming a supporter at OHP?
I would say “what are you waiting for, just do it”! More specifically I would highlight the tremendous welcome I received when I started supporting OHP. The Development team are wonderful and so very helpful, and this helps to make one feel cherished, appreciated and part of the “team”.

 

Interview by Lucy Hicks Beach