Broomhill Opera Company

The Broomhill Opera Company (also referred to simply as Broomhill Opera) is a UK-based theatre production company.

History

The Broomhill Trust was set up in 1990 by the operatic tenor, Kim Begley. Its aim was to restore the Salomons theatre at Southborough near Tunbridge Wells, Kent, and to use it as a summer school for young singers. Broomhill Opera Company was subsequently founded in 1991, and based at the David Salomons estate Broomhill Opera under General Director, Mark Dornford-May, attracted quality artists, including notably Jonathan Miller to direct Ariadne Auf Naxos (1993) and Rodelinda (1996). After their 4th season, Broomhill were forced to leave the Salomons estate theatre and for 1997 they ran a season at a theatre in Christ’s Hospital, Horsham and at the Tyne Theatre and Opera House. Broomhill Opera relocated to Wilton's Music Hall in 1998 and were responsible for first stage repairs to the hall to allow limited performances.

In 1999, Broomhill Opera obtained the first artistic residency, opening Wilton’s more regularly to the public. Their mission, under the artistic directorship of Mark Dornford-May, was to provide performance opportunities for talented young singers and musicians supported by celebrated opera directors. They were based at Wilton’s until 2004 when their work took them to South Africa.

Productions in South African

South African productions include Der Silbersee (2001), The Mysteries – Yiimimangaliso (a South African interpretation of the Chester Mystery Plays), U-Carmen, Ibali Ioo Tsotsi (a South African interpretation of John Gay’s 1728 The Beggar’s Opera)