New Opera Company

New Opera Company, Derby, founded in 1959 was the only local company singing grand opera.

Upcoming Productions

  • The Merry Widow

    The Merry Widow

    New Opera Company, Derby presents a concert of excerpts from the most glittering operetta of them all, along with some Wassails for the Christmas Season. Hazelwood Memorial Hall, Over Lane, Hazelwood DE56 4AG 7.30pm Saturday 9th December 2023.

    More information and booking


History

In years past we have performed one grand opera each year. In January 2012 we performed Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss II at Derby Theatre, which received very good reviews. In previous years we performed at Derby Playhouse, Buxton Opera House and Derby Guildhall. Several of our past members have gone on to perform professionally.

Sadly in recent years, due to financial constraints and difficulty with performance venues, we have been unable to stage a full opera performance. We have instead been performing seasonal concerts, which have included music from operas and operettas, as well as music from the shows and other lighter music. Our concerts, sometimes in costume, are in halls and churches in Derby and surrounding areas and have proved to be very popular.


Membership

We are a registered charity and are affiliated to the National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA). Members are covered by our NODA insurance for personal injury whilst performing and rehearsing with NOC. However the insurance does not cover those over 80 years of age. Membership is by subscription annually of £50 with a concessionary rates of £25 for students, and £70 for a married couple.

We welcome new members whether experienced or otherwise. All we ask is for enthusiasm, a love of music and a willingness to rehearse until our Musical Director is happy with the result. All music is supplied on loan and must be returned.

We always need helpers for “front of house” duties. If you have friends or relatives who would like to help, but don’t want to sing, we can find them plenty to do!

We rehearse at Carlton Road United Reformed Church Hall, Derby, DE23 6HE on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm.