BRINGING OPERA TO YOU
Passionate about bringing top-class opera productions to diverse spaces and communities, Rogue Opera creates intimate touring productions for new venues and audiences, offering a different experience of classic opera.
An exciting new opera experience
2018 – our debut production
In our first production of Bizet’s Carmen, for 6 singers, dancer and piano, we stripped away the pomp and pageantry to present a raw and intimate piece of theatre, examining the power dynamics between people and Carmen’s struggle to find independence and control in her life, love and friendships. Carmen and the Gypsies seek a bohemian life, finding freedom outside of the law. José, drawn to Carmen and this unconventional world, is torn between love, duty and honour. Micaëla, innocent and pious, represents a simpler way of life, and the charismatic bullfighter Escamillo soon becomes a rival for Carmen’s affections. The dramatic resolution of the story was shocking and unconventional in depicting such violence on stage at its 1875 premier and the drama is still relevant today - a serious and though-provoking story underlying some of opera’s most recognisable music.
From a dream to reality
Rogue Opera was established at the end of 2017 by Bronwen Stephens-Harding – director, singer and marketeer. A passionate singer from childhood, Bronwen returned to music full-time in 2012. She is delighted to call on her years of corporate events and marketing experience to fulfil Rogue Opera’s mission to bring top-class intimate productions to audiences around the UK and Europe.
Also fundamental to Bronwen's vision for Rogue Opera is providing a stimulating, dynamic and respectful environment for artists. The company's talented cast and creative team are all professionals with backgrounds including Longborough Festival Opera, Royal Opera House Chorus, English National Opera Chorus, Glyndebourne Festival Chorus and perform regularly throughout the UK and Europe.
2019 – Don G stars in Milan
In 2019 we added Mozart’s Don Giovanni to our repertoire. Set during Fashion Week in present day Milan, we follow the famous lothario - head of the brand ‘Don G’ - as he uses his power, status and wealth to charm, seduce and deceive. His assistant, Leporello, reluctantly aids his boss’s debauchery, while being increasingly drawn into this world of celebrity. Donna Anna seeks justice... Donna Elvira hopes for reform... but will Don Giovanni atone, or scorn the punishment for his crimes? In Mozart and Da Ponte’s original 18th century setting, Don Giovanni’s privilege, wealth and status enable much of his behaviour. Presenting the story against a modern backdrop of fame, popularity and hashtags, Rogue Opera brings the intricacy and power of Mozart’s music to life in an engaging and intimate setting, examining the themes of power, attraction and seduction and exploring what morality, judgement and retribution look like in today’s world.
2020 – our third season
Our 2020 production, Rossini's La Cenerentola, was set to premiere later in 2020.
We also had return performances booked for Carmen and gala concerts, public pop-up performances and new projects in the pipeline.
Covid-19 has changed all that ...
and Rogue Opera moved to performing online.
2021 – we kept singing for you
In 2021, we continued to bring the world of opera to you wherever you may have been with our Rogue Opera VIP Pass and online gala events, with a weekly livestream presenting a great range of music and artists.
