Benjamin Britten – Saint Nicolas.

Saint Nicolas, a fourth century Bishop of Myra (in modern-day Türkiye) is better known to us as Santa Claus.

Benjamin Britten’s cantata St Nicolas Op. 42, composed for choir and chamber ensemble with tenor as soloist and narrator, sets eight episodes from Saint Nicolas' life. The libretto by Eric Crozier dramatically explores the legends of Saint, from birth to his tranquil death.

Bringing this ravishing piece to life are rising Melbourne tenor Alastair Cooper-Golec alongside a choir of IOpera’s finest vocal soloists and Forest Collective ensemble, under the baton of Evan J Lawson.

We are delighted to be collaborating with IOpera in this undeservedly rare performance of this delightful and beautiful work by the one of unquestionably great musical setters of the English language.

Benjamin Britten (1913 - 1976) Saint Nicolas, Op. 42 (1948)
I. Introduction
II. The Birth of Nicolas
III. Nicolas Devotes Himself to God
IV. He Journeys to Palestine
V. Nicolas Comes to Myra and is Chosen Bishop
VI. Nicolas from Prison
VII. Nicolas and the Pickled Boys
VIII. His Piety and Marvellous Works
IX. The Death of Nicolas

Alastair Cooper-Golec, Tenor

IOpera, Choir

Evan J Lawson, Conductor

Forest Collective, Ensemble

Saturday 5 November

7.30pm - 8.45pm (duration approx 1 hour)

Suitable for older children (mild Adult themes)

Kensington Town Hall
30-34 Bellair St, Kensington Naarm 3031

Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong / Boon Wurrung Country

Kensington Town Hall is wheelchair accessible.

Guide/assistance dogs are welcome to all Forest Collective performances.

General Admission Adult: $60

General Admission Concession and Pensioner: $40

General Admission Students and Unwaged: $30