Frederic Chopin and George Sand in Majorca - Delacroix

Chopin & Chips moves to St Mary-in-the-Castle

The Opera South East presentation of CHOPIN & CHIPS has been moved from the Stade Hall to St Mary-in-the-Castle at 8pm this Saturday, 29 June. Ken Roberts, musical director of Opera South East will take a serious, and at the same time light-hearted, look at Chopin’s time in Majorca, writes Chris Cormack.

In 1838 Chopin travelled to Majorca with the famous writer George Sand, who was six years the elder. They spent the winter together in Valldemossa. This was on medical advice,  because Sand’s son, Maurice, was plagued with rheumatism. Chopin, who also suffered from tuberculosis, hoped that by joining the family he would ease his suffering with the milder climate.  They stayed at the Cartuja Monastery where Chopin composed a number of his great works, including some preludes and scherzos. George Sand wrote her famous book  A Winter in Majorca.

Kenneth Roberts.

This recital will now take place in the magnificent setting of St Mary-in-the-Castle, having transferred from the Stade Hall because of a conflict of interest with events going on in the Open Space outside. The start time has been put back to 8pm to allow plenty of time for the audience to assemble. With a large venue there is now no restriction on the numbers who can attend, AND Ken gets to play on a real piano.This promises to be a highly entertaining evening, with a bag of CHIPS thrown in as well! Don’t be disappointed by staying away. Come along to St Mary-in-the-Castle this Saturday and bring a friend. In fact bring several!

Tickets priced at £10 for entry (including bag of chips) are available at the Information Centre and Imagen Gallery in Robertson Street. They will also be available at the door on the night. Enquiries to Sandra Lambourne on 01424 443316.

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