Orchestral Pops with Lake Macquarie Philharmonic

A delightful concert of much loved works by Johann Strauss, Tchaikovsly, Erin Coates, Offenbach, Sibelius, The Overture to Die Fledermaus, Waltz from Sleeping Beauty, The Dambuster's March, Trisch Trash Polka, Finlandia and more.

Conducted by Christopher Bearman OAM, with Ashlee Woodgate Soprano and Sam Elmi Tenor.

Where: Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima

When: Sunday 28 April 2024

Time: 4-5:30pm

About the Soloists

Ashlee Woodgate

Ashlee Woodgate, celebrated for her captivating performances and effortless theatrical ability, has garnered acclaim for her diverse repertoire and exceptional vocal prowess. Her illustrious career is marked by numerous standout performances, including her debut as Mimi in La Bohème with Opera Hunter in June 2023, following her highly anticipated portrayal of Violetta Valery in La Traviata in 2022.

Woodgate's journey into the world of performing arts began with training as a screen actor at the esteemed Film and Television Studio International under the direction of McMahon Management in Melbourne. Guided by some of Australia's leading television actors, Woodgate honed her craft, showcasing her versatility and depth as a performer.

Among her notable roles, Woodgate starred as Nedda in Outlaw Opera's preview performance of Pagliacci with the Stardust Circus in 2019. Her portrayal of Lucia Di Lammermoor with Outlaw Opera received acclaim, as did her performance as Musetta in La Bohème with the Central Coast Opera in 2018. Prior to these roles, Woodgate enchanted audiences as Zerlina in Don Giovanni and Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro with Opera Hunter from 2016 to 2017.

Woodgate's talent has taken her to prestigious stages around the world, including her engagement as First Lady in Die Zauberflöte, where she made her Carnegie Hall debut with the Manhattan Opera Studio in NYC in 2018. She also graced the stage of the National Opera Center during her time in New York.

A highly accomplished soprano, Woodgate's training at The Sydney Conservatorium Opera School and Newcastle Conservatorium has shaped her into a versatile and dynamic performer. Her repertoire spans from Despina in Cosi fan tutte to Dido in Dido and Aeneas, captivating audiences with her remarkable vocal range and emotive performances.

Ashlee Woodgate's accolades include an internship with Opera Australia for their production of Tosca in 2017, where she also covered baroque specialist Miriam Allan in a performance of Haydn’s Creation. Additionally, she has appeared as a soprano soloist in Rossini’s Stabat Mater with the Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra and Handel's Messiah at Sydney Town Hall.

A testament to her dedication and passion for music, Woodgate holds a Masters of Music Studies (Opera Performance) from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, a Bachelor of Music with Distinction from the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, and an Associate Diploma in classical voice from AMEB.

Sam Elmi

Sam's musical journey is rich with prestigious performances and accolades. Notably, Sam fondly recalls gracing the international stage as Anichino in Beatrice di Tenda with the esteemed London Philharmonic Orchestra during the celebrated London Bel Canto festival. In 2020, Sam's resounding tenor voice resonated with audiences as the soloist for Fauré’s Requiem in D minor with DocsVox - NSW Doctors Choir.

Within the local Australian opera scene, Sam has been a valued member of Opera Hunter, assuming diverse roles as a concert soloist, principal, and chorus member. His portrayal of Alfredo in La Traviata in 2022 and Fredric in Pirates of Penzance in 2019 received high praise. Sam eagerly anticipates his upcoming performance as Don Jose in Opera Hunter’s Carmen production in July 2024.

Sam's talent has not gone unnoticed on the competition circuit. In 2021, he clinched the first prize in Taree Eisteddfod’s Vocal Championship and secured a spot as a semi-finalist in Sydney Eisteddfod’s esteemed Opera Scholarship. Notably, Sam's captivating performances have earned him the title of crowd favorite at the Sydney Eisteddfod in 2020.

A testament to his dedication and passion for music, Sam's journey began under the tutelage of Dr. Lada Georgieva in Mashhad, where he embarked on his vocal studies while pursuing a career in medicine. Upon relocating to Australia in 2016, he continued his vocal training under the guidance of Dr. Jennifer Barnes. Sam has since honed his craft with renowned vocal coaches, including Deborah Humble, Sharolyn Kimmorley, and Simon Kenway. His commitment to excellence is further demonstrated through his ongoing pursuit of musical mastery, currently studying for a Master of Music Studies in Opera Performances at the Sydney Conservatorium under Dr. Rowena Crowley’s mentorship.

Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness Sam's spellbinding performance at MAP mima alongside the Lake Macquarie

MAP mima is an outdoor venue. As such, we ask that you come prepared for all different weather outcomes. If wet weather conditions make hosting Orchestra Pops at the Multi-Arts Pavilion mima impossible, Warners Bay Theatre baramayiba will be the alternative. Attendee will be notified of this change and your ticket location will be updated.

Accessibility: venues are wheelchair accessible, flashing lights for performances. MAP mima amenities include two all gender (one accessible RH transfer) and accessible parking bays

*There is limited parking available at MAP mima near the Cockle Creek Boat Ramp, please check the signs carefully as a portion of the carpark is only available to boat trailers and is regularly enforced. Alternative parking is located on Park Road, near Speers Point Pool, then a short walk down the promenade. There are 2 accessible carparks available at MAP mima.