Bella Diva
How did you get together?
We all met many years ago when singing in the chorus of Magdala Opera, based in Nottingham. Anna (mezzo-soprano) and Karen (soprano) began singing together as Bella Diva about four or five years ago, then invited Sarah (soprano) and Sally (mezzo-soprano) to join them a couple of years ago. We have always enjoyed singing and performing and thought this was a perfect opportunity to make wonderful music together!
How would you describe your music?
Bella Diva is an opera crossover group so our sets are largely composed of popular opera arias and duets and more light-hearted musical theatre classics. Someone once said that our voices singing together 'makes your heart ache'. I think that's a good thing!
What have your past experiences with the Hustle been like?
This is our first time at the Hustle so we're extremely excited to be a part of it this year, especially as it combines all different types of music with raising money for charitable causes.
What can the Broadway crowd expect from your performance?
The Broadway crowd can expect a good mix of opera and musical theatre, a bit of seriousness and a bit of fun. I think we're a little different from the rest of the line-up in terms of the music we perform so if people want an uplifting classical experience, we're your girls.
Who else are you looking forward to seeing on the day?
There's so much to choose from! We love the sounds that Manière des Bohémiens make - you can't help moving about and tapping your feet to their music. As former members of a choir, we'll also be really interested to see the G.O.A Choir and Major Oak chorus and listen to their fantastic harmonies. Can we also say Deaf Bridges, just because we like their photo?
Who are your biggest musical influences?
There are so many from the world of opera: Monserrat Caballé, Anne Sofie Von Otter, Joyce DiDonato. More importantly, our singing teacher, Michelle Wegwart, is our biggest influence because she has inspired and encouraged us over so many years. Bella Diva wouldn't exist without her.
How can people find out more about you?
We have a Facebook page or you can find our webpage if you Google Bella Diva Nottingham. Alternatively, just come and say hi after we've performed.
Any last words for LeftLion?
We're really excited to be a part of such a great event - see you at the Broadway at 5pm!
Bella Diva play the LeftLion stage at Broadway Cinema as a part of Hockley Hustle on Sunday 19 October
Bella Diva Facebook
LeftLion Stage event
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
