“Always sing for joy!”
“Opera North is committed to creating opportunities for Northland singers to perform opera, classical and musical theatre to showcase the talents of individual singers and encourage the growth and development of young aspiring singers.
Opera North also supports and trains its members in vocal technique, stage etiquette and presentation, language tutoring and drama in order to raise the standard of performance for the benefit of local audiences.”
Opera North Mission Statement

Glorious Joan Kennaway QSM

1997 The inaugural Opera in the Garden! Joan Kennaway's passion realised in her back garden in Glenbervie, Whangãrei.

Joan & Richard Kennaway - Founders of Opera North

Joan Kennaway with her grand-daughters escorting her to stage - Opera in the Garden circa 2008

Opera in the Garden 2014

Opera in the Garden 2019 - Glenbervie

An extraordinary lineup to celebrate an extraordinary woman. 2018.

Looking at the audience - Opera in the Garden, Operacado Orchard Glenbervie

Conductors Maria & Emma at a wetter than expected Classics in the Cove 2024

Clare Henderson Accompanist finds a space to study - Opera in the Stadium 2017

Sydney Heremaia's Compere debut! Classics 2024

Kawiti Waetford rehearses He Orite for Vocal Embers with DJ Hopkinson ensemble 2024

Emma Couper is Jane Doe - Vocal Embers 2024

Lost in Thought - Classics at the Cove 2020

Indian Ink Co Dirty Work Collaboration 2024

Sometimes being on stage is altogether too much fun! Opera in the Garden 2025

Alisa & Emma, The Grass is always Greener 2016 Showcase


Opera in the Garden 2025 - the revival on beautifully blazing hot day at Tahamoana Farm, Waipu Cove

Fab four Paul, Ian, Chris & Rishi in Silver Linings 2021

Roger leads the rehearsal - Vocal Embers 2024

2023 Good vs Evil Forum North

2021 Opera North Chorus with Emma Couper Conductor

The dress code was black. Emma. Black.