Opera in the Park to stay beside the seaside

The success of this year’s Nelson Opera in the Park at Tahunanui has led to both the popular venue and free entry being repeated for 2011.

The free tickets are available once again thanks to BioPaints, who are covering the income lost by not charging for entry.

Owner Tony Mount says this February's record-breaking turn-out and positive feedback was all they needed to reinforce that it was a popular concept.

"We believe the free tickets were a major factor in this year's success. There was a tremendous atmosphere of community spirit and it simply feels right to be able to give our community a great, free night of quality summer entertainment. It’s a showcase for the Nelson City Council's and local businesses general support for the community as a whole, not just those who could afford to attend."

Tony Mount says they want to continue to build the event next year. "The value of those free tickets was clearly demonstrated when we ran out and had to print more in the month before the event. I'd like to think those who went to the last Nelson Opera in the Park will tell their family/friends from outside the region how good it is to encourage more visitors. We can accommodate more people and it will still be a relaxed and fun space beside the sea."

The 2011 event will be held at the Tahunanui Domain, also known as the Tahunanui playing fields, on Saturday 26 February 2011.

This year a crowd of 14,000 enjoyed a spectacular night framed by a picture perfect sunset over the sea, which Nelson City Council Festivals Producer Sophie Kelly says cemented the idea of staging the event at Tahunanui again.

“While some people were concerned about the effect of the fireworks on the residents of nearby Natureland Zoo, we worked with staff to ensure there were no problems and it all went off without a hitch. We know now the venue works on all levels and are looking forward to producing another memorable night accessible to everyone” she says.

The line up is yet to be announced and tickets will be available from mid December through the usual outlets.