From Lloyd Webber to Puccini
James Rodgers, Rachelle Pike and Jillian Zack Rodgers
Young Marlburians, tenor James Rodgers and mezzo-soprano Rachelle Pike return to their hometown for this very special concert in Marlborough’s ASB Theatre, accompanied by concert-pianist Jillian Zack Rodgers. They will be joined in performance by very special guest performers. Just who is our secret, and will be your delight!
James and Rachelle discovered their talent first in local college and BMT musicals. They followed similar paths, commencing their musical education and training at University, completing it some years later at top musical colleges in the USA. They will delight the Cavalcade audience with two powerful evenings of stunning vocals.
New Zealand Opera regard them both so highly that they regularly fly them back to New Zealand to take part in NZO productions, most recently in the 2015 NZO productions of Madama Butterfly and Tosca. This year they return to New Zealand first to take part in the NZO production of Sondheim’s Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, returning in February next year to perform for us in Marlborough, when they will be accompanied by James’ concert pianist wife, Jillian Zack Rodgers, and those special guests!
In rehearsal - Jillian Zack Rodgers
Tuesday 7 February - 7.30pm
Producer's Notes
It has long been my ambition to invite these two remarkable young Marlburians - who have succeeded beyond expectation in what is perhaps the most competitive musical market in the world, New York City - back to Blenheim to perform for friends, family and supporters, in their home town. As their careers have blossomed, the rest of the world has been able to enjoy their talents – now it’s our turn.