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Glasgow Times

Scotland's first 'shopera' to debut at Buchanan Galleries

Buchanan Galleries in Glasgow is hosting Scotland's first "shopera," a full-scale opera performance set in a retail environment. The 60-minute, two-act performance, titled Bertha, reimagines the story of Bertha Mason, the "mad woman in the attic" from Charlotte Brontë's classic novel Jane Eyre. Read more: GoMA workshop turns asylum seekers' art into postcards and tote bags The show is written, produced, and directed by Rachel Sullivan, a composer and student at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Rachel Sullivan wrote, produced, and directed the show (Image: Supplied) Rachel said: "Having the opportunity to produce and direct this work has been a real privilege and joy. "It's my aim for Bertha to reach those who may never have experienced a production in a traditional opera venue, and change the common perception that opera is for the select few. "Buchanan Galleries has provided the perfect alternative venue, in Glasgow's most central shopping centre, for which I am particularly grateful. "I'm looking forward to welcoming the centre's guests to come and experience Bertha, whether they are seasoned fans or being introduced to the art for the first time. 'I'd also like to thank the incredibly talented cast, orchestra, and my co-director, Hannah Siddiqui, without whom the production would not have been possible, and the outstanding musical director, Chloe Lu Ye. "To have been blessed with such a dedicated and enthusiastic cast and crew is an experience is something I will never forget.' Dress rehearsals for Scotland's first ever 'Shopera' (Image: Supplied) Dress rehearsals for Scotland's first ever 'shopera' (Image: Supplied) Bertha explores the emotional turmoil and cognitive decline of Bertha Mason, set in 1808 during a period when women with mental health conditions were often misunderstood and mistreated. The opera unfolds through dramatic interactions and fragmented memories, revealing a story of survival, self-discovery, and female solidarity. Set to take place at Buchanan Galleries on June 20, 21, and 22, the event will feature a chamber orchestra of 12 musicians, four singers, immersive staging, and a haunting original score. The "shopera" will be staged at the Buchanan Street entrance of the shopping centre, opposite the Rolex store. Read more: STV presenter 'brings the sunshine' to officially open Glasgow care home Dress rehearsals for Scotland's first ever 'shopera' (Image: Supplied) (Image: Supplied) Kathy Murdoch, centre director at Buchanan Galleries, said: "We're thrilled to be hosting Scotland's first ever 'shopera' right here at Buchanan Galleries. "This is such a creative and original way to bring the arts to the high street and make opera more accessible to new audiences. "Rachel and the team have created something really special with Bertha, and we're proud to support local talent and community-focused performances like this. "We hope our guests enjoy the opportunity to experience opera in a whole new way right in the heart of the city." Tickets are available via Eventbrite for a suggested donation of £5. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to Clyde Climate Forest, a charity working to plant 18 million trees in and around Glasgow over the next decade.