The world of opera will descend upon Rotorua this month with Samoan opera singers leading this year’s Opera in the Pā.
Bass-baritone Samson Setu alongside baritone Joshua Futi, soprano Grace McCarthy-Sinclair, and tenor Chris Mcrae will showcase and celebrate operatic talent, culture and the next generation of Aotearoa voices.
Setu, who is now based at Opera Ballet Vlaanderen in Belgium, will headline Opera in the Pā, bringing his powerful voice and growing international reputation to Tangatarua Marae at Toi Ohomai.
The concert will also mark a special homecoming for Grace McCarthy-Sinclair, whose love of performance was shaped by her upbringing in Rotorua and her Māori and Samoan heritage.
The headliners will perform alongside a choir of local school students, continuing Opera in the Pā’s longstanding commitment to celebrating rangatahi and creating pathways for emerging performers.
Opera in the Pā Musical Director Claire Caldwell says this year’s line-up reflects the original kaupapa which remains at the heart of the event.
“Opera in the Pā has always been about creating a stage where exceptional artists can stand proudly in their talent and culture, and this year’s lineup represents that kaupapa beautifully.”
Opera in the Pā Trust Chair Liz Carrington, says Tangatarua Marae is a fitting setting for the next chapter of the longstanding event.
“Opera in the Pā was first held in 1997 and, over almost three decades, has been staged at some remarkable Rotorua locations, including Te Papa-i-ouru, Te Puia, Mokoia Island and, most recently, the Sir Howard Morrison Centre,” she says.
Opera in the Pā will be held on Sunday, 29 November.
Tickets are limited to 400 and are available now at https://events.humanitix.com/opera-in-the-pa-2026
