Our Story

Paisley Opera had its humble beginnings back in 2017 when we hit the streets with a simple message: “Dare to Sing Opera!” We put up posters and handed out leaflets, inviting the community to join us on our operatic adventure. And you know what? The response was incredible! We were overjoyed when 27 enthusiastic individuals showed up for our very first meeting at Wallneuk North Church. It was a moment of realization that we were onto something truly special. From that point forward, we knew that Paisley Opera had the potential to create magic and touch the hearts of many.

We aspire to be a company that the people of Paisley can truly take pride in. Our vision revolves around creating and staging operas in unconventional and unexpected locations, often right amidst the lively streets of the town. By bringing opera closer to the community, we aim to foster a sense of ownership and engagement. We want Paisley Opera to be a company that the people of Paisley can connect with, and where they feel comfortable exploring the world of opera.

At the heart of our company lies the community chorus, a vibrant ensemble that forms the backbone of Paisley Opera. This chorus is open to everyone, regardless of prior experience or expertise. We firmly believe that the joy of singing should be accessible to all, and as such, we do not hold auditions. Whether you are a seasoned vocalist or have never sung a note in your life, we encourage you to come and give us a try!

We are passionate about pushing the boundaries of traditional opera by taking it to unpredictable and unusual places right in the heart of our town. We believe that opera shouldn’t be confined to grand concert halls alone, but should be woven into the fabric of everyday life. By bringing opera close to the streets, we invite the community to encounter this extraordinary art form in a way that sparks curiosity and ignites a newfound love for its beauty.

Our ultimate goal is to share the beauty of great music and drama with the incredible people in our community. We believe that opera has the power to touch hearts, evoke emotions, and transcend boundaries. Through our performances, we bring together exceptional musicians, talented performers, and skilled technicians to create unforgettable moments that resonate with audiences. Whether it’s the soaring arias, the intricate orchestration, or the gripping narratives, we strive to share the magic of opera with our community.

We are passionate about connecting the people of Paisley with the incredible world of opera. We take a unique approach by commissioning special “Paisley” translations for all our performances. These translations are not only a linguistic adaptation but a celebration of our community. By crafting translations that reflect the vibrant spirit and distinctive voice of Paisley, we bring the opera to life in a way that resonates deeply with our local audience. We believe that by embracing our town’s language and culture, we create a powerful connection between the people of Paisley and the enchanting stories and melodies of opera.

At Paisley Opera, our commitment goes beyond staging remarkable performances. We believe in the power of collaboration and the magic that happens when people come together. That’s why we open our doors wide, inviting both audiences and aspiring artists to join us on our creative journey. We welcome individuals from all walks of life to watch our work, be inspired, and experience the transformative power of opera. Moreover, we are lucky to have worked alongside some inspiring local arts groups like Amicus Orchestra and Right2Dance, who add a whole new level of magic to our productions. We firmly believe that great art is a result of collective effort, and by opening our doors, we create a welcoming and inclusive space for all who share our love for music and drama.

At Paisley Opera, we live by the motto “Passion Not Posh!” We believe that opera should be an art form that is accessible and enjoyed by all, regardless of social status or prior exposure to the genre. Our mission is to break down the barriers that have traditionally made opera seem exclusive or unapproachable. We firmly believe that the true essence of opera lies in the passion, emotion, and storytelling it offers, rather than in any elitist associations.