8 Jun 2023

German opera course success for Wellington singer

From Three to Seven, 4:00 pm on 8 June 2023
Baritone Chris Berentson

Chris Berentson Photo: Stagebox Photography

"I've always had the dream of going overseas to sing," says NZ baritone Chris Berentson.

Next week, he'll be heading off to Germany to take on the title role in Lyric Opera Studio Weimar's production of Mozart's 'Don Giovanni'.

He's been selected from hundreds of applicants for a place in a month-long, prestigious opera course.

Chris will be coached by singers and repetiteurs from the top opera houses of Europe and the UK, towards performances at the Weimar Opera House in late July. Casting agents from some of Germany’s leading agencies and Opera Houses will attend the season. 

"It's absolutely the professional experience," says Chris, "which for someone like myself, who has studied to be an opera singer, is just hugely exciting."

"I've been very, very fortunate that this opportunity has come up for me now. I think if it had come up 10 years ago, it wouldn't have been at the right time."

"The role now sits in my voice, and I feel like my experience in New Zealand and in Australia has meant that I can take this role on and give it my absolute all."