Broome’s Opera Under the stars set to hit high note with 30th Anniversary event

As the first tourists of the 2022 Dry Season begin to filter into Broome, the organisers of one of the town’s most dazzling nights are preparing for a milestone year.

For 30 years, some of the worlds best opera singers have travelled to the Kimberley for Opera Under the Stars, an annual one-night-only event held under the magnificent North West skies at Mangrove Hotel.

And this year, Director and Soprano Mary-Attracta Connolly plans to celebrate the milestone with guests at Opera Under The Stars 30th Anniversary Gala, to be held in August.

“This year, we want to share the excitement, share the achievement, with everybody,” Ms Connolly told Broome Advertiser.

She said the idea for the event was born during an industry night in 1992 held by Troppo Sound - a Broome-grown sound company run by Ms Connolly’s brother, Michael G. Connolly.

Singing Soprano together with other nationally and internationally celebrated artists, the first Opera Under the Stars was held in 1993.

It has only become more favoured among performers and opera-enthusiasts alike.

“We have had some really well renowned artists over the years, some of which we are having again this year,” she said.

This years event will feature Yorta Yorta Soprano and Composer Deborah Cheetham AO, Soprano Rachelle Durkin, Mezzo-Soprano Caitlin Cassidy, Tenor Paul O’Neill and Pianist Mark Coughlan.

“We’ve had a great following of people coming from all over the country to experience it,” the event’s director said.

“It’s always been about making opera accessible to everybody and providing an insight into opera that’s great for opera lovers and for opera novices.”

Ms Connolly said that her brother, who has helped run the event since 1993, has been an invaluable support for her over the last 30 years.

“I have to say that without his support and also my family’s, it wouldn’t have been possible.”

Opera Under The Stars 30th Anniversary Gala will be held on August 27th. Tickets are on sale now.