Curtain up

The traditional curtain raiser to the season - the "Prelude" - took place last night with a big turn out of friends and supporters for an evening of fantastic music with singers from the upcoming season. There we some really impressive performances from all of them. It was lovely to see two representatives of Investec Wealth & Investment as well, both attending what is essentially the first event of their sponsorship. It is an event that always feels as though you amongst friends in the very real sense and we are lucky to have such dedicated supporters. Richard Bonynge took time out from rehearsing Don Pasquale to join us and it is most encouraging to hear how positive he is about the production and cast. There is likely to be some fragility in the office today.

James and I are off to record an interview with Ed Seckerson of the Independent for transmission on their website. Links to follow.