Close

Composed by Hannah Peel and libretto by Stella Feehily. Part of Irish National Opera‘s 20 Shots of Opera project.

Nothing is safe at the moment but then, nothing is ever ‘safe’ in matters of love.

From the digital world of online dating, to meeting face to face for the first time; is finding true romance a dream or can Sam and Andi find a way to be together?

A journey of love for our times, an encounter full of trepidation where distance is just as vital as those soaring feelings of attraction.

When romance is at stake, yet circumstances prevail… just how close would you get?

In a year of challenges and upheaval, Irish National Opera’s 20 Shots of Opera turns a spotlight on creativity and makes 2020 a year to remember for positive reasons. Conceived, composed, recorded and filmed in just six months, these 20 short operas showcase the breadth and depth of Irish operatic talent.

***** - The Guardian ***** - The Stage

Hannah Peel's darlingly charming Close (text by Stella Feehily) finds soprano Rachel Croash, and mezzo-soprano Raphaela Mangan, turning in terrific performances, along with a stunningly sung duet, as two women meeting for a first date under social distancing - The Arts Review

Credits Director - Sarah Baxter Conductor - Elaine Kelly Soprano - Rachel Croash Mezzo-soprano - Raphaela Mangan Composer - Hannah Peel Librettist - Stella Feehily Production Design - Sarah Bacon Costume Design - Katie Davenport Lighting Design - Paul Keogan Series Director - Hugh O'Conor Editor - Hugh Chaloner Audio - Production Ergodos / RTÉ Concert Orchestra Commissioned by Stephen Loughman for 20ShotsofOpera See more at irishnationalopera.ie/20-shots-of-opera In collaboration with RTÉ Concert Orchestra Funded by Arts Council Ireland Photography by Ste Murray.