Opera South East’s Carmen production honoured

John Rycroft has just received an Accolade of Excellence 2014 for Musical Excellence. The reward was received on behalf of Opera South East for their production of Carmen last October. The award was made by the South East Region NODA (National Operatic & Dramatic Association)  at Wessex Arts Centre, Alton College in Hampshire, writes Chris Cormack.

Each NODA Regional Representative was asked to make the presentation of the awards to the winnners in their region, and in doing so Anne Lawson, who lives in St Leonards, said: “Opera South East are an amazing Company. Just when you think they can’t do any better, they crown it with another outstanding performance. They fully deserve this award!”

Gemma Morsley as Carmen and Chris Elliott Don José in rehearsal

On hearing the news, Gemma Morsley, who sang the role of Carmen said: “What incredible news! It was such a wonderful production to be part of and I think of my time in Hastings and debut as Carmen very fondly. Thank you all once again for making me feel so welcome; Opera South East is a very special company indeed.”

Further comments were received from Rene Bloice-Sanders (El Dancairo/Morales) who said, “This is awesome!! Well done and congratulations everyone! Such a great show and I must echo Gemma’s sentiments about OSE and say what a great time I had in Hastings. Great music, great show and great people. What more could you want!”

And Anna Goodhew, who played Micaela, added: “Thank you for sending on the good news! You are the loveliest of companies. It was an absolute pleasure working with you. An award well deserved!”

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