‘River Cities’ Gala at the Shanghai Opera House 4th-9th April 2011
Celebrating the Lord Mayor’s visit to Shanghai, Concordia’s programme in China culminated in an Orchestral Gala Concert at the magnificent Shanghai Concert Hall directed by the young British Conductor and composer Benjamin Ellin. The concert began with the World premiere of his own River Citie’s Overture. The Gala performance gave a platform to the visual arts with Concordia Scenic Artist Rosie Mayhew painting two large canvasses onstage during the performance. These two canvasses were themed to represent London and Shanghai with landmarks along the river banks slowly morphing into musical instruments. The itinerary also included visits from Gillian Humphreys and the Lady Mayoress to the Shanghai International Association and the Shanghai Welfare Children’s Centre housing over 1,000 orphaned children.
Along with Gillian Humphreys (artistic director) the Concordia International Ensemble included: Benjamin Ellin conductor/composer, Norah King soprano, Gareth McLearnon flute and Christopher Steele tenor.
