snappy operas: The Final Report

We've come to the end of Snappy Operas  pilot. Two years working with primary school children and top industry composers and librettists to develop ten mini-operas has drawn to a close, with 1500 children having performed in their very own operas.

CONCLUSIONS

Mahogany Opera have created an exceptional product: making opera a contemporary, creative and professional experience.
The delivery of the product is exceptional. Mahogany has highly skilled project management for a programme that is challenging because of its complexity and spatial spread.

“Organising such a mammoth of a project, with all of the different components and different regions and some performances even occurring simultaneously, I feel that the Snappy Opera Team pulled it off with aplomb.” Artist 
“The way the artists and the organisation as a whole works with the schools is special. Even though each school is just one of 25 across the country, it still feels that each school is special - the artists are committed to doing the best for every child.” Partner

The overall package, including the online resource, makes the project strong value for money and impactful. The online resources were used to clarify roles, to review the score, to allow students to rehearse independently, to support teacher-led sessions, and thus to make the best of the time in the workshops.

Students gain an immersive experience, working alongside a team of industry professionals who are also highly skilled facilitators. “It gives the children a chance to perform opera in an accessible way. But it isn’t talking down to them. It uses the language of opera.” Teacher
“This has been the best project that I have ever taken part.” Teacher
“Utterly inspiring and amazing. The most well organised and professional rehearsal I have been involved in over 25 years! It was amazing to have four experts for each rehearsal. The pianist being there for each rehearsal, made such a difference to the entire rehearsal.” Teacher
The environment for the arts in the school is increasingly challenging, which places pressure on the team. “On this project, I think what I really noticed is how the culture of music is being eradicated in schools.” Creative leader
Artists and creative leaders gained insights from the collaborative process. “More than ever I saw that it is crucial to develop a new piece with performers. I also learned a lot about what exact features of a score and text comes over from children performing on stage.” Artist