Free family opera night at Kings Beach

Back by popular demand, Opera on Kings will burst onto the stage of the Kings Beach amphitheatre on Saturday 18 April for another free family concert.

Sunshine Coast Council is the major sponsor of the event, featuring a specially created program of classics from Romeo and Julliette, Rigoletto, La Boheme and a West Side Story medley.

Award-winning classical performers from Vavachi Entertainment will be joined on stage by the 50-voice Caloundra Chorale – winners of the 2007 Queensland Eisteddfod.

A highlight of the night is a not-to-be-missed performance by Pavarotti Viva – three tenors from Ingham, Brisbane and Naples. Inspired by Pavarotti, our home-grown tenors will belt out songs ranging from O Sole Mio and Funiculi Funicula to classics from Joe Cocker and Celine Dion.

An alcohol-free event, Mayor Bob Abbot said Opera on Kings was supported by council to give local families an affordable and quality night out.

"Cultural events like this provide an important outlet for our community in tough economic times,” Cr Abbot said.

“I encourage all residents and music lovers to celebrate the joy of opera under the stars in the stunning setting of Kings Beach Amphitheatre."

The event will be hosted by the Italian-speaking Kate Cox of Hot 91 and Zinc FM, who will provide background about the composers, including Verdi, Puccini and Bernstein.

Every year one charity benefits from a coin collection – this year it’s Cittamani Hospice Service at Palmwoods.

Concert-goers need only bring a picnic and rug to enjoy a night under the stars in comfort. Food stalls will also be available. For further information please visit www.operaonkings.com.au