Talented young Port Macquarie singers perform in Opera Australia’s ‘Don Giovanni’

FIFTEEN talented young singers from the Port Macquarie region had an unforgettable moment in the spotlight when they performed alongside Opera Australia’s cast in ‘Don Giovanni’ at the Glasshouse on Saturday 8 August.

The Children’s Chorus has become a much-loved part of Opera Australia’s regional touring productions, connecting local communities with world-class performing arts while giving young people the chance to be part of a professional production.

Selected from local auditions earlier this year, the 2026 Opera Australia Children’s Chorus showcased performers aged 9 to 14 under the guidance of Children’s Chorus Master, Annalie McRae.

Based at St Columba Anglican School, Ms McRae is a dedicated and passionate music educator who has more than  two decades of experience.

“Preparing the children for a production of this magnitude is challenging, but deeply fulfilling,” said Ms McRae.

“Together, we tackled singing in Italian, mastering complex harmonies, and immersing ourselves in classical music, a genre many of these young singers had never experienced before.

“Seeing their confidence grow in such a short timeframe reinforces just how powerful music education is for childhood development.”

On Saturday, the chorus singers rehearsed on stage with the full cast and orchestra before taking their place in Opera Australia’s powerful production.

“The moment the children first heard the opera singers on stage, their faces lit up with pure wonder and excitement,” continued Ms McRae.

“Having the singers come backstage to chat and answer the children’s questions turned a professional environment into a warm, inspiring mentorship.”

Audiences attending ‘Don Giovanni’ on Saturday night were treated to one of opera’s greatest masterpieces, but they reserved the biggest applause for the local young performers as they made their Opera Australia debuts.

By Pauline CAIN