The Manukau Symphony Orchestra and Auckland Opera Studio presented a well-received Opera Gala 2026 at Auckland Town Hall on Sunday evening, showcasing a diverse program that combined powerful vocal performances with rich orchestral and choral accompaniment. Conductor Uwe Grodd opened the event with a witty reflection on opera’s blend of fantasy and human drama, drawing a parallel to the complexities of modern politics.
The concert began with Auckland Choral’s robust rendition of the “Anvil Chorus” from Verdi’s Il Trovatore, setting a commanding tone for the evening. Soprano Breony Bearman followed with a passionate delivery of “Voi lo sapete” from Cavalleria Rusticana, a role central to the Armenian opera’s emotional core. The orchestral Intermezzo from the same work was performed with notable resonance, embellished by the choir’s full-bodied interpretation of Mascagni’s Easter Hymn.
Violinist Amalia Hall contributed a delicate performance of the Meditation from Massenet’s Thais, adding lyrical warmth to the program. Soprano Felicity Tomkins then brought dramatic nuance to her role with a finely articulated reading, demonstrating both vocal and interpretive skill. Many attendees who had previously experienced the soloists in more intimate recitals expressed admiration for their confident command of the larger concert setting alongside Grodd’s orchestra.
Ridge Ponini’s evocative solo, “Flower Song” from Bizet’s Carmen, provided a lyrical counterpoint to Hall’s virtuosic interpretation of Sarasate’s Fantasy on themes from the opera. Baritone Alfred Fonoti-Fuimaono delivered an imposing portrayal of Scarpia in Puccini’s Tosca during the “Te Deum,” engaging fully with the powerful forces of the combined chorus, orchestra, and organist Philip Smith.
The evening’s most striking moment came with the final scene from Puccini’s Manon Lescaut, featuring Tomkins and Ponini. The extended 18-minute sequence showcased Ponini’s tenor qualities as the noble Des Grieux, matched by Tomkins’ rich, lustrous soprano in the title role. Her performance of the closing aria was especially noted for its profound emotional depth and attention to nuanced detail. John Davies’ stage direction offered meaningful visual insights into the doomed lovers’ plight, supported by a lush orchestral interlude.
Among other highlights was a spirited contribution from The Cloud Children’s Choir in Carmen choruses, which added youthful energy to the evening. The gala concluded with a moving and sonorous rendition of “How Great Thou Art” sung bilingually in te reo Māori and English, providing a resonant and culturally significant finale. Overall, the Opera Gala 2026 was praised for its thoughtful programming, accomplished performances, and effective blending of vocal and instrumental forces.