Among the angophoras and squiggly gums this year’s Opera in the Arboretum at Pearl Beach was a resounding success on all levels.
The scene was set for a sublime afternoon with a crowd of hundreds of locals and visitors gathering on their picnic rugs and fold out chairs.
The weather gods blessed the afternoon with a gentle breeze in pleasant temperatures as the local kookaburras let out a good chuckle.
The superbly talented Central Coast Chamber Orchestra conducted by the Central Coast Conservatorium’s own Patrick Brennan opened the afternoon with a warm up from the Italian romantic O sole mio by Giovanni Capurro, setting the scene.
A veritable smorgasbord of arias was then performed by the four international-class opera performers – tenor Diego Torre, soprano Sophie Salvesani, baritone José Carbó and mezzo soprano Shikara Ringdahl.
One highlight was when all four singers performed in unison to the accompaniment of the local birdlife revelling in the notes as they sang out across the valley.
Praise goes to event organisers the Rotary Club of Woy Woy and their sponsors and professional partners who have perfected the art of outdoor classical musical performances.