By ALANA MITCHELSON
LOCAL opera fans will have the rare opportunity to see Australian tenor David Hobson perform live in his first ever Pakenham gig.
The versatile artist will perform a range of genres from classic opera through to musical theatre and Celtic favourites.
“I like these intimate performances because it gives people a chance to see you sing in a different setting, away from the big lights and costumes,” he said.
“And while that’s quite challenging for me, it’s a great opportunity for me to do things I wouldn’t normally do.”
Among the highlights of his operatic career thus far, Hobson has been invited to sing the national anthem at the AFL Grand Final, he has starred in many theatre productions including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and has composed music for both theatre and film scores.
“I really enjoy composing, it feeds the soul a little bit,” Hobson said.
“I compose on piano and sometimes guitar; sometimes professionally and sometimes for my own pleasure.
“I grew up in a household that was always full of music. My dad was really into musical theatre and comedy, and I remember going through my mum’s collection of LPs by some of the great classical composers.”
While admitting that opera shows were “hard to sell compared to all other musical genres” in the year 2016, Hobson said there is still much opportunity for young, emerging opera singers in Australia.
“Even though audiences may have waned over time, the art form will always stay. There is something really special about the style. It’s classic. And it always will be,” he said.
“The audiences who do appreciate opera are also very loyal.”
Towards the end of the year, Hobson will tour with his comedian friend Colin Lane, performing in a new duo act that will combine their two passions: music and comedy.
“We’ve been musing about this concept for a while. It’s going to be a lot of fun,” he said.
“We’ll be coming to Melbourne and we’re hopeful to do regional shows too.”
David Hobson will perform at 8pm on 20 May at Cardinia Cultural Centre.
