How do you beat loneliness? How do you learn to laugh again?
Featured on BBC Radio 4 Today programme, ITV Wales, BBC Wales and in the Western Mail, Swansea City Opera’s Shoulder To Shoulder is an original and uplifting opera.
Shoulder To Shoulder is inspired by the moving, uplifting, and laugh-out-loud stories of members of the charity Men’s Sheds Cymru. The charity supports isolated men by creating warm and welcoming spaces where Shedders build friendships, enjoy hobbies, learn new skills, and drink tea.
Swansea City Opera collected Shedders’ stories of life’s ups and downs. Librettist Brendan Wheatley of Swansea City Opera created the story of a group of Shedders, and Lenny Sayers (BBC National Orchestra of Wales) set the story to music. The result is a new opera - Shoulder to Shoulder.
The talented cast features prize-winning Welsh singers who have sung in and with some of the UK’s and Europe’s leading opera houses, concert halls, and companies ranging from the Royal Opera House, the Royal Albert Hall, Glyndebourne Festival Opera, and Welsh National Opera.
Soprano Jessica Robinson, who sings the role of Gwen, was a finalist in the prestigious international opera competition BBC Cardiff Singer of the World 2023. As a finalist, Jessica follows in the footsteps of singing greats, including the internationally renowned Welsh singer Sir Bryn Terfel.
Shoulder to Shoulder was a massive hit with audiences across Wales in 2022 and 2023; venues sold out, and performances received standing ovations. Shoulder to Shoulder tours again this spring
“Simply brilliant in every department.”
“Bravo! A unique subject for an opera, so real and convincing, the singing and production were first-class. I laughed and cried.
Swansea City Opera aims to make opera accessible to everyone, create new operas and tell authentic stories.
“I went to the opera with slight misgivings. Came back a convert.”
Cast
Rhys - Dyfed Wyn Evans – baritone
Ioan - Robyn Lyn Evans – tenor
Gwen - Jessica Robinson – soprano
Dai - Aled Hall – tenor
Charlie - Mark Saberton - bass baritone
Musical Director - John Beswick
Composer – Lenny Sayers
Librettist – Brendan Wheatley
Accompanied by a chamber ensemble
Tickets: £10, can be reserved by calling Mike on 07920 251637 or emailing
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Also check out other Music events in Llandovery, Entertainment events in Llandovery, Nonprofit events in Llandovery.
