'Whatever the weather, the show will go on', opera goers were promised by organisers of Grayshott Concerts second open air opera 'Madama Butterfly' last Saturday. In the event, a sprinkling before and a light shower afterwards surrounded a brilliant but dry performance of this colourful and intense drama enjoyed by a packed house of local people at Grayshott Primary School.

"There is always such a great atmosphere and enthusiasm at Grayshott Concerts events" said supporter, Gillian Rawcliffe. "Nancy Yuen as Madama Butterfly was superb and the whole production by Opera Box was very moving", she added.

Artistic Director, Vivien Harrison was delighted with the audience's reaction. "Many people have said how much they've enjoyed the evening and have praised the quality of the performance. And you really can't say more than that, can you."

The evening was a triumph for Grayshott Primary School pupil, 9-year-old Callum Drain, chosen from almost a dozen young hopefuls, to play the part of 'Sorrow' in Act II. After only a short rehearsal, Callum portrayed Madama Butterfly's young son with admirable feeling and skills beyond his years. "It was a great thrill to perform with real professionals",he said. Understudy, Shoshanah Sievers (7), so impressed the show's director, Andrew Gallacher, that she has been offered the role at another Opera Box performance later this Summer. "They were both such good performers", said Andrew.

"It's a great pleasure staging top flight music performances in Grayshott", said marketing director, Peter Harrison. "Members of 'Buy In Grayshott' (BIG) are so supportive. Without the help of Sponsors, Barons BMW, Lloyds Pharmacy and Cain Manor, the event just wouldn't have been possible", he added. "And the Buffet Supper provided by joint sponsor 'The Fox & Pelican' was a huge success."

The Grayshott Concerts organisers are now preparing for their next big challenge: Violin virtuoso and 'Young Classical Brits' winner, Chloe Hanslip will perform Vivaldi's 'Four Seasons' at St Luke's Church on Saturday !st November. For more information, ring 01428 606666.