Student performs magic role at Royal Opera House

Fourth Form student, Declan Hall, is currently performing on stage at The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, after being selected for a role in the opera Die Zauberflote (The Magic Flute). 14 year old Declan, who is more used to singing at Reigate’s St Mary’s Church as a chorister, is taking to the stage as the 3rd Boy in Mozart’s popular opera which follows the tale of young prince Tamino.

Declan was selected after his singing teacher, Rodney Gibson, recommended he attend auditions held last autumn. Combining school work with his on stage role, Declan will take part in a total of 12 performances until the end of the opera’s run on 1 March. The opportunity to take the role in The Magic Flute followed Declan’s performance in a smaller role in Tosca last summer, as part of the Royal Opera House’s BP Big Screen Season.

Commented Declan: “This is a big role and having to sing in German at speed is challenging. I have to wear a harness as we fly across the stage in a winged go-kart, which is the highlight for me. Going from a school day to the Opera House is a surreal experience, but a great one. The adrenaline rush of being on stage with so many talented singers is making this an experience I shall never forget.”

Added Simon Rushby, Head of Music at RGS: “It is a real feather in Declan’s cap to land such a role and a rich reward for his dedication to singing. Declan is clearly talented and it is a pleasure to see him develop and enjoy his singing. He is also taking part in a number of school concerts at the same time as his run at the Royal Opera House and so has a busy month ahead.”

February 2008