Opera in the Arboretum despite difficult five weeks

Woy Woy Rotary Club's Opera in the Arboretum was a success, despite the death of event organiser Mr John Greenway just weeks before, according to club president Mr Russell Grove.

"The last five weeks have been difficult for the club with dealing with John's tragic accident and then his death.

"We mourn his passing and extend deep condolences to Marijke and the family.

"The Opera Committee continued its planning under the leadership of Paola Liverani-Brooks and other members of the club who stepped forward to ensure that all was in place to stage the show.

"On several days before, the heavens had opened but the show did go on.

"The Opera in the Arboretum has been a signature event for our club previously under the leadership of John Greenway.

Alas that is no more, but the future looks positive as we learn from the past to make the future even better.

"What is important is that the past five weeks is evidence of the strength and resilience of the Rotary Club of Woy Woy and worthy of commendation," Mr Grove said.

Committee president Ms Paola Liverani-Brooks said that "multiple announcements to bring raincoats came to absolutely nought.

"The sky cleared, not a drop of rain fell and our audience picnicked under the gum trees at Pearl Beach and experienced a wonderful afternoon of opera."

Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section, Fairhaven Central Coast, Coast Shelter, Central Coast Conservatorium of Music and Rotary projects at home and abroad all benefited from the proceeds of the event.

One attendee Ms Stephanie Short said: "This year's concert was dedicated to the memory of the late John Greenway, the driving force behind the previous concerts, who died tragically after a recent cycling accident.

"Michaele Archer, the artistic director of Opera in the Arboretum, sang an extremely moving rendition of one of John Greenway's favourite pieces, Shenandoah, accompanied by Giuseppe Zangari on the classical guitar.

"A wonderful tribute.

"At the end of the day, the artists seemed to enjoy performing and we certainly enjoyed this brilliant concert, the 14th Opera in the Arboretum."

SOURCE:

Newsletter, 18 Mar 2019

Vic Deeble, Rotary Club of Woy Woy

Social media, 18 Mar 2019

Paola Liverani-Brooks, Opera in the Arboretum

Email, 19 Mar 2019

Stephanie Short, Woy Woy