Open Air Opera Live From London in Derby. (26 June 2009).

The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden is bringing the magic of open air opera to Derby's Market Place with two special screenings relayed live from London onto Derby's BBC Big Screen.

The University of Derby is supporting the two events which form part of the BP Summer Big Screens Programme 2009 and are free to the public. For anyone who packs a picnic each year for the city's annual Darley Park Concert - the country's biggest free classical concert - or who has enjoyed Derby LIVE's recent Cathedral Green performances of Peer Gynt these are two must see events for the summer!

As well as the main performances there will be pre-event entertainment from Tomfoolery - Derby's juggling and circus skills group, plus special backstage films from the Royal Opera House and live interaction, so arrive early to enjoy the pre-show entertainment. Derby residents can watch La Traviata on Tuesday 30 June, starting at 7pm, and The Barber of Seville on Wednesday 15 July which starts at 7.30pm.

The University is providing around 60 seats in the Market Place which will be available on a first come first served basis although anyone wishing to attend can bring their own picnic seating.
Audiences can bring a picnic; and a number of restaurants, coffee shops and bars located around the Market Place will be open for refreshments.

Tony Hall, Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House, said: "I think it's very exciting that we're able to relay live opera and ballet performances from the Royal Opera House to all of these new and existing big screens across the country, and all completely free for audiences. "This is a fantastic opportunity for family and friends to come together this summer and experience these world class performances in the outdoors.

"Each city creates a unique atmosphere - there's such an air of excitement and expectation with hugely enthusiastic crowds." Peter Allen, Marketing Director at the University, said: "We are delighted to be supporting these live productions on the Big Screen in Derby's Market Place. "There's nothing quite like relaxing with friends and family with a picnic in front of the Big Screen whilst watching these fantastic shows.

La Traviata - love in Paris is never easy Tuesday 30 June, 7pm.
The Royal Opera performs Verdi's masterpiece. It is a story as old as the hills. Young man falls for young, beautiful woman, and she falls for him... except the woman has a shady past and their love causes social embarrassment for his family. To cap it all, the woman is seriously ill. She gives her lover up, both their hearts are broken, he vows revenge, her illness becomes terminal. Can he get to her bedside before it is too late?

You'll need more than one tissue as you watch Renée Fleming and Joseph Calleja in an all-star line-up for this, one of the most famous operas of all time. Verdi's incredible score will leave you exhilarated and deeply moved as the tragedy plays out before you.