BBC
In 2011 the Royal Opera House and the BBC agreed a new strategic partnership involving greater creative collaboration between the two organisations and building on our long-standing relationship across both television and radio. The Royal Opera House and the BBC have since come together to co-produce new commissions created especially for television, as well as continuing to showcase some of the world’s finest opera and ballet.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland heralded the new partnership when it was broadcast in April 2011 on BBC Two. It was preceded by a documentary exploring the making of the ballet. Other productions broadcast so far includeTosca with Angela Gheorghiu and Bryn Terfel, which was accompanied by Pappano’s Essential Tosca. This documentary, presented by the Royal Opera House Music Director Antonio Pappano, examined the dramatic importance of each location in the opera and illustrated what Puccini does musically to create a great theatrical experience. The Royal Opera House also hosted two series of BBC Two’s popular Maestro, in which contestants took a crash course in conducting opera, competing to lead the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House in a live performance at Covent Garden.
A new series about singing, written and presented by Antonio Pappano, is currently in development. This new direction demonstrates a commitment to reaching and inspiring a broader audience across the UK.
BBC Radio 3’s relationship with the Royal Opera House continues to be a significant partnership with up to 15 works broadcast each year in Opera on 3. Music Matters and In Tune regularly reflect the work of both The Royal Ballet and The Royal Opera.
Find out more in our News and Features section.
