Opera Vera presents a landmark double bill of world premieres — a major new artistic statement of remembrance, resilience and hope.

This April, Opera Vera unveils Sunflowers, our most ambitious and significant project to date: two powerful new works that confront the scars of war while illuminating the enduring strength of the human spirit.

At the heart of the evening are two deeply moving premieres. War Wounds, a searing new song cycle by Sean O’Boylewith words by Yuliya Trishkeu, tells of a raw personal experience of war in Ukraine — its devastating impact on family life, identity, and the private world behind the headlines. Alongside it, Sunflowers by acclaimed British composer Adam Gorb as a luminous meditation on resilience, separation, hope and love in the shadow of war, written for soprano, baritone and Pierrot ensemble.

Internationally acclaimed performers bring these works to life: soprano Yuliya Trishkeu and baritone Gary Ruston, joined by an exceptional ensemble (flute/piccolo: Jess Pun Lai Yuen, clarinet: Oliver Lee, violin: Christina Mayfield, cello: Cillian Hennessy, piano: Ameen Elbadri) under the baton of outstanding world-recognised conductor Timothy Reynish. Together, they create an evening that is both intimate and monumental — a living act of remembrance and a powerful statement of hope for our time.

Two performances only:

24 April, 7:00 pm - International Anthony Burgess Foundation
Tickets available soon

26 April, 7:00 pm - St Elizabeth’s Church, Altrincham
Ashley Members and Trust members only. If not a member - to attend, please inquire via email: info@operavera.co.uk

Kindly supported by Ida Carroll Trust, Hinrichsen Foundation and St Elizabeth Ashley