Led by members of Magdala Opera, the students have been preparing for a public performance based on the popular opera Cavelleria Rusticana, which they have called “Rough Justice”.

More that 50 students have taken part in the project representing Sutton Centre Community College, Quarrydale School and Priestsic Primary School.

They have been coached by eleven members of the Magdala Workshop team, along with four professional musicians and two international opera singers who have travelled to Sutton especially for this activity.

This year’s workshop will be the fifth Opera Start activity at Sutton Centre Community College.

The aim of Opera Start is to introduce youngsters to many aspects of vocal, basic compositional and performance techniques, enabling them to create their own pieces which they then perform in staged operatic excerpts alongside professional singers and musicians.

The activity has been made possible by continued substantial support from Arts Council England, East Midlands, with additional assistance from Ashfield District Council; Nottinghamshire County Council; Youth Music; the Foyle Foundation, Creative Partnerships; Nottinghamshire Arts Partnerships and private donors.

The public performance of “Rough Justice” will take place at Sutton’s Idlewells Shopping Centre at 7.15pm on Friday 13th July.

Chairman of Ashfield District Council, Cllr. Harry Toseland and his Lady, Mrs. Jean Toseland join in a rap routine with students at the Magdala Opera Workshop.