Exploration, immigration and RNCM

I have successfully journeyed across to the other side of the world! It is now almost three months since I left New Zealand and even though I do miss home with its blue skies and green pastures (a combination not so often found here in Manchester), I have had an unbelievable time exploring new places.
My trip began in Thailand, where I met my sister Katie; we swam, rode elephants and ate incredible Thai cuisine. We then flew to Athens and braved the 42°C heat to visit the amazing array of historical sites the city offers, all of which were amazing to experience and recall the history of millenia past.
Following a few days in Athens, we headed out to the islands (Tinos, Syros and Santorini). I have long dreamed of visiting the Greek Isles. Often when you have dreamed of something for that long, you idealize it beyond what it can really supply. Not so here - I was utterly blown away by just how beautiful it is. Similarly to Thailand, we swam, walked and ate copious amounts of souvlaki. 

I then said goodbye to Katie and flew to London where I met my parents. We spent a week traveling through Yorkshire and the Lakes District before they dropped me to my new home in Manchester. And just like that, I was on my own in a new country, a new city in which I knew no one whatsoever. Inevitably, there were tears, but I am launching into my new life with zest, passion and a ready smile.

A full month at the RNCM has come and gone... I have met some wonderful people and I am so excited to be studying here amongst such a high standard of musicians and tutors. ​So far my time here has been spent primarily on rehearsals for Cendrillion, in which I am singing step-sister Noemie. We are already having a lot of fun working on this hilarious opera, and begin production rehearsals next week. If you happen to be in Manchester in December, make sure you come along! I have put a link to buy tickets below (my cast performance dates are 6, 10 and 14 December). 
Aside from Cendrillon, I have been working in lessons, performance classes, movement and stagecraft classes etc, and I was lucky enough to be able to work with Susan Bullock in a masterclass two weeks ago.

My most recent news is very exciting... I have been cast as the Mother in the RNCM's March production of Hansel and Gretel by Humperdinck! I am ridiculously happy that I have the opportunity to perform two complete roles while here at the RNCM - firstly because it will be a terrific learning opportunity, and secondly because it's just a whole lot of fun!
So things are off to a superb start here in Manchester and I will be sure to keep you up to date with all my various comings and goings in the future months.

I would like to sign off by saying thank you to you all for your support. It does mean the world to me.
​Eliza x

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION REGARDING CENDRILLON