University News Last updated 22 May
Alumni composer and singer Daniel Blanco Albert and Roxanne Korda respectively have been commissioned by Digbeth arts organisation Grand Union and property specialists Stoford Developments to present a multi-site opera for the BBC’s new headquarters, The Tea Factory in Digbeth.
The Digbeth site will be transformed into a state-of-the-art broadcasting centre that will act as a catalyst to regenerate that area of the city. The BBC has also said that the former Typhoo Tea factory will open in 2027 and be one of its greenest buildings.
Grand Union has commissioned Infinite Opera, led by Daniel and Roxanne, to create a multi-site “operatic community performance-installation that follows multiple simultaneous narratives, which is inspired by the lived experiences of local residents, workers and the industrial and cultural heritage of the area”.
The performance will take place during the summer of 2026 when The Tea Factory development will be handed over to the BBC, alongside the unveiling of a new landmark public artwork by Turner Prize Winner 2024 Jasleen Kaur.
As part of the creative process, Daniel and Roxanne will run a series of opera-making workshops throughout the year, inviting anybody interested in exploring Digbeth’s cultural heritage through performative arts. They will also promote the creation of a community chorus of singers and performers to take part in the final show.
Daniel said: “It’s exciting to compose this operatic work, as it pays homage to an area of Birmingham I am very fond of and that I’ve seen in constant change for the last few years. I am eager to explore in depth its heritage and from it unfold narratives that could speak globally. I have envisioned the structure of this piece for the last three years, and I cannot wait to start writing it. I’m thankful to Grand Union, who supported Infinite Opera in its infancy and for inviting us to develop this ambitious project.”
Roxanne added: “I am so excited to have the opportunity to think deeply with a community about the future of their environment, and to find enchantment in Digbeth’s urban landscape. This is also a fantastic opportunity for the company to make new and relevant work, and reach new audiences in the city.”
If you are interested in getting involved with the opera-making workshops and the wider project, get in touch with Infinite Opera by emailing infiniteopera@gmail.com.
Pictured, centre: Infinite Opera leading an opera-making workshop at Grand Union in May at Digbeth First Friday