The Audland Talks

Exploring the world of opera with the European Opera Centre

Leading experts are invited to Liverpool for a series of entertaining and thought-provoking talks on opera at distinguished waterfront venues. Join us in our inaugural season, introduced by the European Opera Centre’s Curator, Dr Sophie Redfern, as we uncover the world of this extravagant art-form.

Stars, Spectacle and Excess: Handel Conquers London

Simon McVeigh

Although the flock of sparrows released on stage was adversely reviewed by The Spectator, Handel’s Rinaldo of 1711 was a triumphant success. Simon McVeigh brings to life 18th-century London, its audiences, its star singers and the financial fortunes of its impresarios, revealing Handel’s place within this fast-changing world.

Simon McVeigh is Professor of Music at Goldsmiths, University of London, and President of the Royal Musical Association. He specialises in British musical life in the 18th and 19th centuries and has published extensively on the topic.

General Information

Timings

Doors open at 5.45pm.

Talks last about an hour.

Bar

The bar is open from 5.45pm and after each talk. We do hope you will join us to meet the speakers informally.

Venue

RIBA North is located on Liverpool’s iconic waterfront and has excellent transport links.

For more information, visit: www.architecture.com/contact-and-visit/riba-north

Accessibility

RIBA North is accessible for those with reduced mobility.

Seating for the event is unreserved, however if you require a wheelchair accessible space and a companion seat please let us know in the appropriate box on the ticket booking form.

FAQ

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

You will receive your ticket in an email and can either show your ticket on your mobile phone or bring it as a print-out.

Can I buy tickets at the event?

Any unsold tickets will be available on the door (cash only), but this is subject to availability. To guarantee a ticket we recommend you purchase in advance.

About the European Opera Centre

The European Opera Centre has been developing artists and opera audiences for 22 years: many of the singers the Centre has helped train are now performing in Europe’s major opera houses. It opened Liverpool’s year as European Capital of Culture with Donizetti’s Emilia di Liverpool, and has brought to the city twelve productions, six of which are available on CD. Since 2017, the Centre has been working with Liverpool schools on a vibrant multi-arts project using an award-winning animated opera film instigated with BBC Television.

The Audland Talks are the Centre's latest venture.

The Audland Talks are named in recognition of the generous support provided to the European Opera Centre by Christopher and Maura Audland.

A charitable company limited by guarantee incorporated in England and Wales / company number 09734788 / charity registration number 1164360