Handsworth pensioners join professional opera for TV show
Dec 3 2009 by Catherine Lillington, Birmingham Mail
BEST friends Constance Johnson and Ivy Jones are more used to singing in their church choir – but tonight they will join a cast of hundreds in an opera screened on TV.
The OAP sopranos are appearing in Birmingham Opera Company’s new production of Othello, to be featured on The Culture Show at 7pm on BBC2.
The professional cast will be headed by tenor Ronald Samm. He will be supported by a chorus, acting company and, for the first time, a dance company and children’s choir, all drawn from the local community.
The pair were signed up at their senior citizens’ club in Handsworth.
With no idea what to expect, the friends of 30 years have been devoting hours to rehearsals.
Constance, a 69-year-old with five children and 14 grandchildren, said: “I’ve never done anything like this before and haven’t even seen an opera but now that I’m doing it I’m loving it.
“I’m really looking forward to opening night.”
Constance met Ivy when they were both working as nurses at City Hospital and they now sing together at the Methodist Trinity Church in Handsworth.
Ivy, aged 74, said: “I really didn’t know what to expect but everybody’s very friendly.
“I don’t know yet if I’ll be nervous on the opening night. I’m just taking it in my stride.”
As well as being screened on BBC2 director Graham Vick is staging the show live in a former rubber factory – The Argyle Works on Great Barr Street, Ladywood – on December 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 17 and 19. Tickets are £17.50 (£10 conc), available from 08444 77 1000.
