Amici dell’Opera
Before stepping down as Chair of The Canterbury Opera Foundation, Julia Perry had the wonderful idea to create a group of opera enthusiasts who could assist the Foundation and help spark a love of opera in the next generation.
Laura Lee Watson and Kate Burtt have teamed up to bring this idea to life.
Laura Lee Watson
With a background in performance, songwriting, and music production, my artistic journey began in Christchurch, starting dance at the age of four, followed by vocal training with Helen Charlton.
I performed with Canterbury Opera Youth and the Canterbury Opera Chorus. A career highlight was performing in a recital as part of a small chorus of Canterbury Opera Youth members accompanying Dame Kiri Te Kanawa - an experience I deeply treasure.
I eventually shifted my focus to original composition and now work full time in the music industry. I’m passionate about bridging the gap between classical traditions and contemporary audiences, and I believe opera should feel alive, relevant, and accessible to all.
Kate Burtt
As a former Chair and Trustee of The Canterbury Opera Foundation, I’ve seen firsthand the joy opera can bring to people of all ages.
One of my most treasured memories is of students from St Thomas of Canterbury College attending a dress rehearsal, led by their teacher and passionate opera lover, Maureen Gaffney.
They arrived dressed for the opera and left completely enchanted by the experience.
Heartfelt thank-you notes said it all.
Our Goal
Our first goal is to raise $2,000 to help cover transport costs for school students to have the chance to attend the dress rehearsal of NZ Opera’s 2025 production of La bohème at the Isaac Theatre Royal so that more students can enjoy this unforgettable introduction to opera.
How You
Can Help
Join us as a Amici dell’opera and be part of bringing this art form to life for the next generation. Every dollar helps, and your support could be what gets a student to the opera for the first time.
Credit card donations can be made via the red donate now button.
In the comments section please insert “Amici” or please contact Administrator Lynne Havenaar at info@canterburyoperafoundation.co.nz for bank account details to direct credit your donation.
If you’d like to be involved or learn more about Amici dell’Opera, we’d love to hear from you – amici@canterburyoperafoundation.co.nz.
With gratitude
Laura Lee Watson & Kate Burtt
Amici dell’Opera