What do words matter in the opera world?

It is truly a rare privilege to announce an evening bringing the cream of the world’s librettists together to discuss their role in crafting some of the most revered contemporary operatic ‘scripts’.

We are delighted to welcome Meredith Oakes and Philip Hensher to St Paul’s Opera’s home – St Paul’s Church, Rectory Grove, SW4 0DZ – on Tuesday 8th June at 8pm, to a round-table discussion hosted by the Rev Canon Jonathan Boardman, vicar of St Paul’s, and also a mine of information on all aspects of the operatic repertoire.

Australian Meredith Oakes wrote the libretto to The Tempest (Thomas Adés) which was premiered in February 2004 at the Royal Opera House. Meredith is also a prolific playwright. Philip Hensher, who was born in South London but grew up in Sheffield, is a Professor of Creative Writing at Bath Spa University. He wrote the libretto to Powder Her Face (Thomas Adés) and is also a novelist with Man Booker long- and short-listed books to his credit.

The evening will also include musical interludes to illustrate the topic of discussion.

Tickets are now on sale at £5 each, but are limited (due to social distancing) so please book early to avoid disappointment.