This week, Warrenpoint was abuzz as Opera Collective Ireland (OCI) and Newry Chamber Music (NCM) joined forces to prepare for their highly anticipated performances of The Walk from the Garden. With singers, musicians, and choirs rehearsing in full swing, Warrenpoint Town Hall became a hive of creativity and collaboration. Jonathan Dove‘s opera reimagines the story of Adam and Eve leaving the Garden of Eden, offering a poignant reflection on humanity’s relationship with nature and the impact of our choices on the environment.

The buzz is set to kick off in style next week in Armagh on Thursday, 28th November, as the first performance of this 50-minute church opera coincides with the launch of the much-loved Georgian Festival. Against the backdrop of Armagh’s historical charm, The Walk from the Garden will blend music, storytelling, and climate-conscious themes, sparking conversations about our connection to the natural world.
The production is set to be directed by the award-winning Conor Hanratty, known for his acclaimed work on The Critic at Wexford Festival Opera. Andrew Synnott will conduct the ensemble, bringing his extensive experience to the fore. The cast features tenor Aaron O’Hare as Adam and soprano Catherine Donnelly as Eve. They will be joined by the Clermont Chorale and Gaudeamus choirs as ‘The Voice of God’, under the direction of Ronan Dennedy and Cathal Murphy, respectively. The instrumental ensemble includes violinists Joanne Quigley-McParland and Tom Jackson, violist Robin Panter, cellist Peggy Nolan, organist Jack Wilson, and timpanist Ronan McKee.

The Walk from the Garden will be performed at the following venues:
• Thursday, 28 November 2024, 7:30 pm: St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, Armagh– Book Now
• Saturday, 30 November 2024, 7:30 pm: St Colman’s College, Newry– Book Now
• Sunday, 1 December 2024, 7:30 pm: St Joseph’s Redemptorist Church, Dundalk– Book Now

This collaboration between NCM and OCI is supported by the Shared Island Civil Society Fund, reflecting a commitment to bringing opera beyond traditional venues and engaging diverse audiences.