The Tyne Theatre and Opera House is proud to announce Opera Unplugged, a thrilling
three-day international conference bringing together leading scholars, practitioners, and
opera lovers from across the globe to explore the hidden histories, evolving practices, and
enduring magic of opera. Taking place from Wednesday 3 to Friday 5 September 2025, the
conference promises an unmissable programme of thought-provoking talks, live
demonstrations, and rare insights into the artistry behind the spectacle.
Set within one of Britain’s most atmospheric surviving Victorian theatres, Opera Unplugged
will delve into the technical, musical, architectural, and cultural fabric of opera. From the re-
imagining of lost theatres to the revival of forgotten works, the conference will uncover the
creative legacies that continue to shape operatic storytelling today.
The event will open with a keynote from celebrated baritone Sir Thomas Allen CBE, whose
personal reflections on a life in opera promise to set the tone for a deeply engaging few
days.
Conference highlights include:
- Tommaso Sabbatini on the meticulous editing of a 1903 Tosca production at the
Opéra-Comique - Hannah Scott on Scottish identity and costume on the Parisian stage
- A special session on Oscar Barrett, including discussions of The Corsican Brothers and
The Lancashire Lass - An exclusive opening of the Carl Rosa Opera Exhibition, featuring rarely-seen
artefacts and archival material - A keynote from Nicholas Payne, former Director of the Royal Opera House and one
of the world’s most respected voices in opera policy and advocacy - Groundbreaking research into the world’s first public opera house – Venice’s Teatro
San Cassiano – with Paul Atkin and Jon Greenfield - A live historic stage lighting demonstration
- A tour of the Tyne Theatre’s exceptional historic stage machinery
- Final-day explorations into the forgotten world of opera-ballet in Britain, opera
prompting, and gender in the German voice tradition
From scholars of 19th-century performance to cutting-edge reconstructions of lost
technologies, Opera Unplugged celebrates opera not only as performance, but as craft, as
culture, and as collaboration.
“This is a rare opportunity to place Newcastle and our magnificent Grade I listed theatre at
the heart of international opera dialogue,” says Conference Curator Dr. David Wilmore.
“We’re uniting scholars, designers, technicians, and musicians in a truly interdisciplinary
celebration of operatic heritage.”
Whether you’re a historian, performer, student, or simply an opera enthusiast, Opera
Unplugged offers a dynamic and welcoming space to share, learn and be inspired.
Tickets & Registration
Delegate places are limited and early booking is advised.
To view the full programme and book your place, visit:
www.tynetheatreandoperahouse.uk/operaunplugged