Nelson: Local support puts the bang back into opera

Nelson Opera in the Park will end with its usual spectacular fireworks display thanks to the support of two local businesses.

The fireworks element of the event was in doubt after the loss of BioPaints as a sponsor, but John Ivanof from Combat Pyrotechnic wasn’t taking that lying down.

“I’ve been involved with the fireworks for Opera in the Park for several years and I know how people look forward to it,” he said. “Fireworks are part of all the big outdoor musical events around the country and we couldn’t see Nelson let down like that.”

John says he looked around for a ‘good honest local businessman making a nice natural product’ and came up with Pic Picot of Pic’s Real Peanut Butter.

“Pic is putting up the cash, I’m giving my time and my crew are working for nothing - between us we can make this happen,” John says.

Pic Picot says he’s hoping John can work the ‘wonderful red stars’ from the lids of Pic’s Real Peanut Butter into the theme of his fireworks.

Nelson City Council Festival Producer Sophie Kelly says the sponsorship is wonderful news.

“Nelson Opera in the Park is a big part of our summer – it’s a great night out for opera lovers and for those who just enjoy the music and the atmosphere,” she said. “There are still other aspects of the event we’d love to find sponsors for, such as the big screens that let everyone see the onstage action, so I’m hoping Pic and John’s example might trigger some more generosity!”

Tickets are on sale now for Nelson Opera in the Park, which features tenor Ben Makisi, lyric soprano Aivale Cole, the Vector Wellington Orchestra under the baton of Marc Taddei – plus the Topp Twins yodelling to an orchestral backing as you have never seen them before.

Nelson Opera in the Park is on 26 February 2011, at Trafalgar Park, gates open 5.30, event starts 7.30pm. Adults $15, children 5-15 $5, children under five free. Tickets at Everyman – no booking fee thanks to Everyman in Hardy St.

This event is part of Summer in Nelson, presented by the Nelson City Council as a celebration for locals and an attraction for visitors.

ENDS

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