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Lost in space
DAVID NICHOLSON applauds the intentions of a WNO production for kids, but finds the production itself inadequate
[Kirsten Mc Ternan]

Play Opera Live, WNO

THE latest production from Welsh National Opera is aimed at children and is part of the company’s policy of making opera accessible to more diverse audiences. But while the aim of Play Opera Live — A Space Spectacular was praiseworthy the reality was way off the mark. When I arrived at the theatre I was kicking myself for not having brought my two granddaughters. By the end I was relieved I hadn’t.

Aiming opera at a very young audience requires considerable thought and simply cobbling together a narrative with some of opera’s greatest arias did not work.

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