Opera Start In The Community
In 2009, Magdala has taken the Opera Start methodology and adapted it in a pilot project, focussing on community groups in inner city Nottingham. The project, entitled Opera Goes Carnival, has fused elements of opera with the music and rhythms more typically associated with the traditional Caribbean carnival
A series of workshops, involving artists, dance troupes and members of the Magdala Opera Start team, culminated in public performances in Nottingham Market Square and at the Riverside Festival. The underlying objectives of the project have been to break down existing cultural, artistic and social barriers, develop the skills and raise the aspirations of the Carnival artists and engage diverse community groups in activities which demonstrate the benefits of working together towards a common goal.
Magdala is now seeking to build on these objectives through Community Opera Start, applying the lessons already learned to new groups, in new settings and with new partners. As before, a key aspect of the project will be the professional and creative development of the participants; Magdala, with partner organisations and associated artists, will provide training for participants in rhythm, dance, costume, performance and script writing, all geared to raise aspirations and creating an environment where cultural and social barriers are surmounted in a creative process.
Whilst the vehicle in this project is music and performance, its purpose is to tackle the issues of stereotyping, prejudice and negative perceptions that are prevalent across the diverse community groups in the City of Nottingham. The intrinsic structure of the project will enable us to address the needs of diverse communities as those involved not only differ in age, gender, race and background; but also in skills, experience and aspiration. The project will provide the perfect opportunity for community members to engage in a sustainable activity, invest in relationships, build confidence, develop transferable skills (such as teamwork and communication) and create a platform for continuing positive growth.
There is widespread support for Community Opera Start but whether it goes ahead will depend entirely on the availability of funding. Applications have been made to a number of grant making bodies and the outcome is awaited.
