Ed,
We heard on the Grafton Grapevine that ‘A Night at the Proms’ was to take place on 6th April in Stanthorpe Qld. Guest artist was none other than world-renowned Soprano, Mirusia.
Having toured the globe with André Rieu’s Johann Strauss Orchestra, Mirusia and family recently returned to Australia.
We certainly weren’t going to miss such a momentous event, so ‘Thelma & Louise’ headed to Stanthorpe.
The Clarence Valley Orchestra & Chorus joined forces with around 50 Queensland musicians, creating a rich, full sound that filled the packed Stanthorpe Civic Centre.
Opening with the ‘Thunder & Lightning Polka,’ a ‘Cole Porter’ tribute brought back fond memories, as did ‘Salute to the Big Bands.’ An incredibly disciplined Orchestra obviously had the time of their lives.
Then came the moment we’d all been waiting for … Mirusia. André Rieu often remarked that Mirusia ‘sings like an angel.’ How right he was! Each of her solos was performed effortlessly with consummate skill. Her ‘Ave Maria’ brought me to tears. That glorious voice … once heard, never forgotten.
The Choir, too, were inspirational, particularly during Vivaldi’s ‘Gloria’ and Fauré’s deeply moving ‘Cantique.’
The programme even included a performance featuring an ancient typewriter as soloist. Hilariously performed by Dan Fahey (percussionist/comedian) it invoked many a giggle.
We wondered what Greg Butcher had in mind for the Finale. Well! We have never heard a more poignant, emotional piece than Mirusia’s rendition of ‘I Still Call Australia Home.’
We all clapped, stomped and cheered, culminating in a standing ovation. Well done Greg Butcher. What an achievement to bring together musicians from NSW and Qld and present such a seamless performance. And Mirusia … I wonder whether she might consider performing in Grafton?
One can only hope!
Joan Moy,
South Grafton