Recession may be in the air but Dublin City Council's Arts Office is determined to lift spirits with a series of free lunchtime opera performances. Opera in The Open, returns to the Amphitheatre at the Civic Offices, Wood Quay on Thursday 7th August at 1pm and continues each Thursday to 4th September. Operas featured in the new series include firm favourites such as Cosi Fan Tutti, La Bohème and The Barber of Seville. Now in its ninth successful year, Opera in The Open has established a large and loyal public following, becoming one of the City's most popular summer events. City Arts Officer, Jack Gilligan, is delighted that the initiative has been such a success. "Opera in The Open proves, beyond doubt, that there is a significant audience for opera in this city" he maintains. "People are travelling long journeys, often by train, to come to these performances. The events are also adding to the enjoyment of the city for a growing numbers of overseas tourists each year" he says. Singers, for this year's series, include Sandra Oman, Simon Morgan, Elizabeth Ryan, Declan Kelly, Mary Flaherty, Janyce Condon, Nyle P. Wolfe and Victoria Massey. Musical direction is by David Wray and Ted Courtney will narrate each performance.
