Yep, Wainwright will become one for the few solo artists to ever perform at the Royal Opera House, when he takes to the stage for a series of exclusive concerts. The concert, House of Rufus: 5 Nights of Velvet Glamour & Guilt can be seen exclusively at the Royal Opera House from 18-23 July.
For the opening night, Wainwright will perform Rufus Does Judy!, his celebrated Judy Garland tribute. Musical Director for the hit West-End musical Wicked, Stephen Oremus, will be conducting the Garland tribute. This show will be repeated on Friday 22 July, the fourth evening of his show, due to its expected popularity.
The following performances will see Rufus duet with sister, Martha Wainwright, and his father, Loudon Wainwright. The concluding nights concert will see Wainwright present a version of his critically acclaimed debut opera, Prima Donna, with operatic singer, Janis Kelly. It will finish with Wainwright taking centre stage to perform some of his own songs.
Speaking of his new venture at the Royal Opera House and his reputable style within the Opera and Pop world, Wainwright said: “This will be a great thoroughfare of art.”
When asked how he felt about the collaboration of styles in such an iconic well renowned building he said: “I’ve never lost that sense of wonder [for a building of this calibre].”
Whilst still having respect for establishments like the Royal Opera House, and regarding his residency as an honour, Wainwright said: “we’ll still have some fun.”
Referred to by Elton John as “the greatest songwriter on the planet”, Wainwright spoke of his progression into the world of Opera. He spoke openly about his transition from one minute being a normal teen, and the next, “I was a 17 year old Opera queen.”
Wainwright suggested that, like his debut opera, Prima Donna, this offers the opportunity of “new audiences” to the world of opera.
Tony Hall, Chief Executive of the ROH added: “It’s important for us to present new and different opportunities for audiences to come and enjoy all that the Opera House has to offer and to make the most of our wonderful theatre. I’m thrilled that Rufus Wainwright will be part of our Summer Season this year.”
For more information and for details on tickets visit: www.roh.org.uk/rufus.
© 2010 Copyright Jason Shaw
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