Second ‘Pay What You Can’ Opera Launched By Opera North

After its sellout ‘Pay what you can’ performance last year, Opera North has launched a ‘Pay what you can’ Rigoletto, enabling people to enjoy a night at the opera at a price which suits them.

Verdi’s popular classic will be performed in full in the stunning surroundings of Leeds Grand Theatre at 6.30pm on Wednesday 28 October. This performance has been designed primarily as an event for first-timers. As with all Opera North shows, people are invited to wear what they like, and English subtitles will be clearly displayed on either side of the stage so they can enjoy the beauty of the original Italian while still understanding what is being sung. There will also be a chance to pre-book a backstage tour to get a peek at what goes on behind the scenes before the curtain goes up – and a special Rigoletto cocktail will be available in the HAR bar next door to the theatre.

Emily Simpson, Opera North Director of Audiences & Brand, said: “Our ‘Pay what you can’ opera is back by popular demand! ‘New to opera’ tickets are always an option for people joining us for the first time, but these have already sold out for Rigoletto, so it made sense to offer an alternative, giving even more would-be opera-goers the chance to experience the artform at a price which fits their budget.

“Rigoletto is a great show for anyone who has never been to see an opera before, with some of the most incredible – and recognisable – music ever written and a thrilling storyline which will take every person in the auditorium on an unforgettable emotional journey.

”We would like to thank the Laidlaw Opera Trust for making this possible and for all their support in giving first-timers the chance to experience opera and live performance.”

Opera North’s award-winning production of Rigoletto is directed by British theatre artist Femi Elufowoju jr who has used his experience as a black man in a predominantly white society to inform his approach. Many of the cast are black, including Blake Denson in the title role, who is set to mesmerise audiences with his astounding voice.

The audience will also get to hear the renowned chorus and orchestra of Opera North – and can have fun spotting the contemporary cultural references, including nods to various Netflix shows.

Suggested prices for ‘Pay what you can’ Rigoletto start at £5 with no booking fees. Tickets can be bought online, over the phone or in person at the Opera North Box Office.

The performance joins a host of other accessibility initiatives offered by the company, including audio-described performances with touch tours beforehand, British Sign Language interpreted shows and relaxed options designed for anyone who prefers a more informal theatre environment.

More information here.