MSO CONCERTS 2026

AUCKLAND OPERA STUDIO IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE MANUKAU SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA - OPERA GALA 2026

SUNDAY 28 JUNE 5.00PM  |  AUCKLAND TOWN HALL

Tickets available from www.ticketmaster.co.nz

UWE GRODD CONDUCTOR
JOHN DAVIES DIRECTOR
FRANCES WILSON ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

AUCKLAND CHORAL
SOLOISTS SOON TO BE ANNOUNCED

Experience opera at its most thrilling as the Auckland Opera Studio in association with the Manukau Symphony Orchestra and guest soloists bring some of the world’s most beloved moments from the stage to life.

The evening opens with the fire and rhythm of Verdi’s Il Trovatore, with the rousing Anvil Chorus. Passion and heartbreak follow with Leoncavallo’s dramatic Vesti la giubba from Pagliacci . The shimmering Intermezzo and radiant Easter Hymn from Cavalleria Rusticana by Pietro Mascagni, alongside the serene Méditation from Massenet’s Thaïs, capture opera’s sacred and sensual sides, before the first half concludes with the stirring final trio Alerte, Alerte! from Gounod’s Faust.

After the interval, the drama continues with fiery scenes from Bizet’s Carmen and Puccini’s richly emotional Manon Lescaut, including its sweeping Intermezzo and the tragic final act.

From Verdi’s grandeur to Puccini’s passion, Opera Gala celebrates the power of the human voice and the splendour of orchestral drama — a feast of melody and emotion not to be missed.

John Davies
Director
Frances Wilson
Artistic Director