Page 57 - FINAL_Guildhall Media Highlights 2019-2020 Coverage Book

construction, costume, lighting, props, scenic art, sound and video production - have
been translated to the digital world.

Dominic Wheeler, Head of Opera at Guildhall School says: “ When we started
this project, we had to reinvent our way of working so quickly that we felt it would put
too much pressure on everyone involved to share the full finished result publicly.
However, whilst the process has certainly been a healthy challenge, it has also been
exciting and eye-opening. We feel that the students’ enthusiasm and commitment to
telling stories meaningfully in such difficult circumstances transcends all the challenges
they’ve faced, and makes us proud to share their work with everyone .”

Collaborative and interdisciplinary work is a priority across Guildhall School, and this
project has integrated work by more than 100 artists from the Opera, Production Arts,
Vocal and Music departments, as well as Guildhall Live Events - an innovative new
department set up to act as a conduit between the professional artistic, creative and
entertainment industries and the world-class educational practises of Guildhall School.

Dan Shorten, Creative Director of Guildhall Live Events says : " This wonderful
cross-School collaborative project is an excellent example of Guildhall’s resourcefulness
and ability to adapt. Having firm connections to industry, through initiatives such as
Guildhall Live Events, allows for current technical innovation and developments to be
instantly implemented into curriculum delivery, and conversely allows our students to
work with, and push, our industry partners and the way we work with them
commercially.”

The Production Arts department at Guildhall School has long been recognised as
providing some of the most innovative vocational training in the UK and beyond, and the
School is embracing this chance for students to learn cutting-edge skills and new
technology working practises which are vital in today’s theatre and live events industry.

The digital opera double bill is available to watch until 1 July here .

Purcell Dido and Aeneas
Respighi La bella dormente nel bosco

Creative Team

Dominic Wheeler conductor
Olivia Fuchs director
takis designer
Jake Wiltshire lighting designer
Victoria Newlyn movement director

Streaming link: www.gsmd.ac.uk/music/virtual_opera