Leading singers at Pearl Beach

Organisers of the annual Pearl Beach Opera in the Arboretum concert have announced the first two performers for next year's event.

Baritone Mr Michael Lewis and soprano Nicole Youl will sing at next March's event in Pearl Beach, according to event organiser Mr John Greenway.

"Michael, one of Australia's most respected singers, is highly regarded for his command of both the operatic and concert repertoire," Mr Greenway said.

"Career highlights include soloist with Rudolf Nureyev at the London Coliseum in Bejart's ballet to Mahler's Songs of a Wayfarer, title role in Rigoletto at La Fenice, Venice, and the famous Jonathan Miller mafia-style production in London, in Elijah Moshinsky's Opera Australia production.

"Nicole Youl is one of Australia's leading sopranos.

"In 2008, she sang Amelia (Un Ballo in Maschera) and Cio-Cio-San for Opera Australia, performed Wagner's Wesendonck Lieder with WASO and appeared in an Opera Gala for The Queensland Orchestra.

"In 2009, engagements included Santuzza, Leonore (Fidelio) and Mimi for Opera Australia.

"In 2010, Nicole Youl will sing the title role in Tosca for Opera Australia in Sydney."

Mr Greenway said organisers were presently negotiating with two other top Australian singers, one a mezzo soprano, and the other a tenor.

"Funds raised next year will go to youth organisations on the Central Coast and other Rotary charities.

"Tickets will be available early in the New Year for the March 12 event."

Email, 9 Aug 2010 John Greenway, Pearl Beach Opera in the Arboretum