So much more than Opera!
Since 1986 The South West Opera Company Inc. (SWOC) has strived to bring the people of the South West and beyond a taste of quality music and theatrical experiences – from musical comedy and drama, choral works to opera and winery concerts to Christmas Carols.
SWOC invites people of all ages to come along and join in the delights of presenting live performances with a family of people who love to sing. Arrange a time to pop in to one of our rehearsals to see if the fit is right for you.
Not only do you we have an adult arm of the Company, but we are also looking to the future by providing an opportunity to young and energetic singers in our community to join our Choir – the Junior SWOClets (primary school) and our Senior SWOClets (high school) are equipping young performers with the skills and experience to take their musical dreams to the next level if they wish. Or they can just come along and have fun with their peers. Many young people who have had an association with SWOC have gone on to study at WAAPA and pursue professional careers in music.
Our yearly program is generally a busy one with an established timetable of concerts and performances set throughout the year. These include the Jalbrook Estate Winery Concert, The Harvey Music Specular and our extremely popular Christmas concert at St Boniface Church with live orchestra.
Although, some unexpected requests have been made of the Company lately. The most recent stand out was singing opera classics, dressed in gowns on the back of a vintage truck in 3 different locations around Bunbury for the Bunbury Fringe Festivals Opera-On-The-Move in 2021. We had a blast!!!
Every two years the Company presents a major theatrical production with amazing sets, costumes, and a live orchestra at the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre (BREC) with the assistance of their professional technical and support team.
Its most outstanding, ambitious, and successful production to date was that of Andrew Llyod Webber’s musical “The Phantom of the Opera” in 2018. With sold out shows and standing ovations at every curtain call, SWOC received great acclaim for the outstanding work – including a number of Robert Finley Award (WA Amateur Theatre Association) nominations and awards.
Past productions to receive high praise was that of “The Fiddler on the Roof” in 2016 and “Beauty and the Beast” in 2014. Our 2021 production, and the third showcase for SWOC of the highly popular musical “Les Misérables”, will no doubt once again provide the South West audiences with something to remember for years to come.
The South West Opera Company Inc is grateful for the support from all our sponsors in assisting us in making the arts accessible to all members of our local community.
Background
The high standard that the South West Opera Company Inc (SWOC) has achieved to date is the result of 30 years of vision, hard work and excellence. Founded in 1986 with 16 members, the company has grown in numbers and stature.
SWOC’s mission is ‘To produce and perform high standard, quality Classical and Contemporary Music with Voice and Instruments in a Spirit of Friendship and Teamwork’.
The Company’s aim is to provide Opera, Operetta, Musical Theatre and high-quality choral works to South West audiences. Since 1988, the company has toured the South West extensively from Fremantle to Albany, showcasing affordable, quality theatre to an audience that would otherwise not experience the magic of musical theatre.
The South West Opera Company Inc is proud of the atmosphere and community that exists within the company. Seasoned performers and talented newcomers alike share in the enthusiasm and joy that makes the company very special.
