On the 22nd February 2020 we headed over to B’Operas first Saturday Relaxed Concert at the beautiful and very fitting venue of St Georges Church in Edgbaston.
From the moment that you enter the building, right until the moment that you leave, you feel so welcome. Like you are a part of the B’opera family. And that is one of the (many) things that keeps bringing me back to B’Opera sessions. They are friendly, welcoming and you immediately feel at ease within them.
The whole concert is based around the most beautiful opera. There’s classical and folk song coupled with plenty of storytelling and an abundance of interaction for the children with games and adventures. Zoe and Jac are absolutely fantastic with children and they ensure that each baby and child is involved and gets a chance to join in. As an adult it is amazing to see so many young children absolutely entranced with the music. Listening carefully and joining in.
The third person of B’opera is Phil who plays the piano (and sometimes the organ). Jemima can often be found watching Phil in awe, playing the music to accompany some of the opera.
If you avoid going to baby and toddler classes because your child struggles to keep still, you do not need to worry in the relaxed concerts. Children can be themselves and you as parents can relax.
In our last session (Tales & Adventures) we even got to go on a singing adventure through the Church. All the children were straight onto their feet (and adults too) to join in. You can’t help but smile throughout the session. What also makes you smile is how happy Zoe and Jac are whilst doing the concert. It is obvious that they love what they do and this shines through in their performances.
At the end of the concert, the doors to a side room and kitchen are opened, displaying a huge spread of food. Crumpets, fruit, chocolate brownies, cheese and crackers. There is something for everyone. I am currently on a diet and it was great that I could still indulge with some watermelon, strawberries and grapes aplenty. My girls loved the crumpets and fruit. There are hot and cold drinks available too to accompany your snacks.
This is a great chance for parents to catch up, mingle and make new friends too as books, colouring and toys are put out to entertain the children, so adults can have a break.
B’opera relaxed sessions are faultless. Really well thought out and the perfect way to spend time as a family.
Disclaimer : On this occasion we were gifted tickets to attend, however we do often pay to attend as we LOVE the sessions so much.