Five Lines is a collection of writings about music in Aotearoa New Zealand by Elizabeth Kerr. It features short articles, artist profiles and reviews of concerts, operas and albums. You can subscribe - it’s free - at the bottom of any story.
NZ Opera’s new La Bohème: what’s the enduring appeal of Puccini’s masterpiece?
Why is Puccini’s La Bohème still one of the world’s favourite operas, long after its première in 1896? And why should you not miss NZ Opera’s new production? NZ Opera’s Brad Cohen offers some answers.
NZ Opera’s Le Comte Ory: a comedy of disguises
NZ Opera’s production of Rossini’s Le Comte Ory is a highly entertaining night at the opera for both seasoned opera-goers and those new to the art form.
NZ Opera’s new head, Brad Cohen: sharing the power of music
Brad Cohen, incoming General Director of New Zealand Opera, talked to Five Lines about his training and career as a conductor and his drive to share the power of music through the intimacy of the singing voice.
New Zealand Opera’s Macbeth: opening the gates of hell
NZ Opera’s Macbeth - Verdi’s genius, an outstanding cast of singers, innovative and atmospheric design and contemporary themes make for an unmissable production.
New Zealand Opera’s Macbeth: “blood everywhere”
NZ Opera’s new production of Verdi’s Macbeth explores issues of power and gender and the derangement and paranoia of the 21st century human psyche.