Opera’s real pioneers

Published: 1 October, 2010

• WHILE I wish Adam Spreadbury-Maher all the best with his first opera season at The King’s Head Theatre, I would like to point out that the 60-seat Rosemary Branch Theatre (also in Islington) has been an opera venue for nearly 10 years, beginning with The Marriage of Figaro, directed by Martin Smith of BBC Radio 3’s Night Waves (Access all arias – opera on stage at King’s Head, September 24). 

The Rosemary Branch has produced at least two operas a year since and has built up a loyal audience base. One of the first shows in the King’s Head season (not mentioned in your article) will be Charles Court Opera’s production of HMS Pinafore, which is a Rosemary Branch transfer. 

Pub theatre opera is a wonderful opportunity to present works on an intimate scale and showcase young talent, but it is not a new concept. Rosemary Branch artistic directors Cecilia Darker and Cleo Sylvestre are the true pioneers in this field.

JULIA RANK
Northchurch Road, N1