Minderoo partners with WA Opera
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The West Australian Opera has today announced Nicola and Andrew Forrest’s Minderoo Foundation has joined its 50th anniversary celebrations as a major partner, contributing $75,000.
Originally known as the Australian Children’s Trust, the Minderoo Foundation was established by the Forrest family in 2001 and has since supported more than 250 initiatives across Australia and internationally in pursuits focused on strengthening the arts, culture and community.
The $75,000 contribution towards the WA Opera 50th year celebrations will focus on ensuring greater access across the state to the opera.
Mrs Forrest, who is Minderoo’s chief executive, said the WA Opera was a cornerstone state arts and cultural institute.
“We are delighted to support the company’s 50th anniversary and mission to bring opera to the community in new and inclusive ways,” she said.
The 50th anniversary events include three main stage operas, the free community event City of Perth’s Opera in the Park (which is also simulcast to venues across Western Australia), three regional concerts in the Pinnacles, Greenough and Valley of the Giants, as well as expanded education and outreach programs.
Through these events, WA Opera expects to reach over 50,000 audience members across WA.
WA Opera general manager Carolyn Chard said these events would not have been possible without partnerships with philanthropy and support from corporate organisations.
“The contribution and engagement with the state opera company by government, patrons, leaders, corporates, donors and audience members is crucial to continuing the legacy already established by the company,” she said.
“The leadership of Minderoo Foundation in supporting the company is important and reflects the values of both organisations.”
The WA Opera is the only opera in Australia that has performed out of the same venue since its establishment, His Majesty’s Theatre, which celebrates its 113th anniversary this year.
“WA Opera is proud of its history as we celebrate 50 years trading under the same name and constitution,” Ms Chard said.
The next event on WA Opera’s anniversary calendar is Puccini’s Tosca at his Majesty’s Theatre from March 28.