An adventurous and accessible arts organization, Flipside Opera & Art Song Collective has provided unique opportunities to Manitoba-based singers and inspired programming to audiences. Fully-staged operas, competitions, casual performances—often with beer in hand—this weekend Flipside presents their annual fundraiser.
Combining two quintessentially Italian pastimes, bocce and opera, the event gives attendees the opportunity to compete, enjoy and reconnect.
“People can come, have a great time and see each other,” says artistic director Judith Oatway. “Enjoy an afternoon along with some fabulous singing and supporting Flipside.”
For the uninitiated, ‘bocce’ is similar to lawn bowling—and, in a way, not dissimilar to curling, as Oatway points out—accessible to players of all ages and abilities.
Whether registering as a team or as a single player, participants will play around the grounds at Norwood Community Centre. The event also features 50/50 and refreshments from Little Brown Jug Brewing Company
Whether patrons plan on playing bocce or simply watching the competition, all will be treated to fantastic performances by some of Winnipeg’s finest musicians.
“I think singing with Flipside, I’ve just appreciated how unique their programming is,” says tenor Aaron Hutton. No stranger to the local arts scene, the award-winning singer and actor was crowned the inaugural Opera Idol back in 2015.
Joining him will be fellow Opera Idols Ana Toumine (2020 winner), Ashley Rees (2017), Lizzy Hoyt (2018) along with soprano Andrea Lett and pianist Deena Grier.
Expect to hear plenty of opera arias, Italian art song and even join in the singing with a chorus or two!
Every-bocce loves opera takes place Sunday, August 28, 1-4pm at Norwood Community Centre (87 Walmer Street).
Bocce participant registration (individual or team of two) deadline: Wednesday, August 24 - $25 per player.
Spectator and supporter tickets are also available for $20.
Visit: www.flipsideopera.com for more details.