Sir Thomas Allen and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa appear in Die Fledermaus

Monday 30 November 2015

We were thrilled to welcome Sir Thomas Allen and Dame Kiri Te Kanawa for surprise performances in the RCM International Opera School's recent production of Die Fledermaus.

The two world-famous opera stars were special guests at Prince Orlofsky's party in Act II. Sir Thomas Allen, an RCM alumnus, sang Some Enchanted Evening on Friday 27 November, and on Saturday 28 November audiences were treated to a performance of O mio babbino caro by Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, RCM Visiting Professor of Opera.

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Sir Thomas Allen in 'Die Fledermaus'

RCM Head of Vocal Studies Nick Sears comments: "To have John Copley CBE directing an RCM student production together with his stellar creative team is a privilege in itself.  For our students then to be joined on stage by Sir Tom and Dame Kiri created two unforgettable operatic moments for casts and audiences alike.  We could not be more grateful to John, Kiri and Tom for giving their time to support and encourage our talented young artists."

RCM Director of Opera Michael Rosewell, who conducted the opera, says: "Dame Kiri and Sir Tom's very public association with this RCM opera production shows the measure of their trust in our work and training, as well as in the high standards we consistently attain. We are incredibly grateful to them for the inspiration and support they have given us over so many years". 

Baritone Harry Thatcher, a member of the Die Fledermaus chorus, commented: "Sharing the stage with two operatic legends was experience I will never forget."

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Dame Kiri Te Kanawa in 'Die Fledermaus'

This sold-out production of Die Fledermaus, directed by renowned opera director John Copley, has received rave reviews from The Observer and Bachtrack amongst others, and much acclaim from audiences on social media.

See more images from the production on Flickr.

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Cast and Chorus in the RCM International Opera School's 'Die Fledermaus'

All photos © Chris Christodoulou