The business end of rehearsals.

There’s just two weeks to go until the premiere of my new opera, The Quest. Having completed the music some months ago, there is not much for me to do at this stage – re-notation of a few bars in orchestral parts to avoid the odd double sharp, perhaps…

The entire cast, some 45 or so performers aged between 10 and 18, are working extremely hard – only at evenings and weekends, of course, as it is still a busy time for them all at school or college. Their commitment and energy is inspiring and sets an example to all of us involved.

London Youth Opera is unusual, even among operatic productions which centre on young performers, in that every cast member – absolutely everyone on stage – is 18 or under. The whole production however – everything behind the scenes – is completely professional: director, conductor, orchestra, costumes, choreographer, set designers, lighting, sound – and composer and librettist…!

The young cast are treated with the respect due to professionals, in a special educative relationship between the cast and their ‘leaders’. An acknowledged ‘charter’ or commitment to the show replaces the more formal ‘contracts’ of the professional world; there are clear guidelines on the approach to and expectations of rehearsals; the schedule is mapped out as clearly in advance as any professional engagement; dates are booked in with parents and carers, instead of agents…

The resultant atmosphere of the rehearsal room is a very special blend of youthful exuberance, drive and commitment, with a nurturing, constantly upward learning curve for all involved. The fact that the show is a world premiere adds to the sense of freedom, discovery and breaking new ground in every session.

Above all, the cast sound absolutely stunning, and the movement and direction is slick, precise and expertly organised. My own involvement aside, I cannot recommend LYO shows enough – the perfect Christmas show for all ages!