The Elixir of Love - a tonic for opera fans!

Ireland has produced a surprising number of internationally renowned opera singers. One rising star is Knocklyon-born Claudia Boyle, who trained at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and went on to win the International Maria Callas Award, one of opera’s biggest accolades. Her prize was a medal passed on by the iconic Callas and since then reportedly brought for luck by Claudia to all her roles, including one as the heroine of legendary director Mike Leigh’s first opera production, the Pirates of Penzance. She has also performed at the G20 Summit and in New York, Berlin, Rome, Tokyo, Sao Paolo, Ankara and many other exotic venues. Irish audiences have enjoyed Claudia’s performances too thanks to productions by the Irish National Opera and they will get another chance thanks to an upcoming leading role in Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore directed by Paddington’s Cal McCrystal.

Tell us a little about your new production L'elisir d’amore?

At the moment I honestly don’t know! The cast and crew will find out the concept for the production on the first day of rehearsals. It’s quite exciting and it’s similar to the first day of school! The opera company introduces everyone, and the director, designers and conductor all reveal their plans. We see a model of the set and costume designs too. But I do know it’s a fantastic cast and creative team. The opera itself is utterly delightful, charming, and funny and the perfect opera for newcomers and opera buffs alike. 

An ideal present for Valentine’s Day?

Absolutely. The Elixir of Love? It’s doesn’t get more romantic than that and also, it's the perfect gift for something different and inspired this Valentine’s Day. Spoiler alert, the good guy gets the girl - proper order this February too. 

What was your favourite Valentine’s gift?

I’m not sure I should disclose that. But let’s just say, every woman out there should have one..... a giant slab of Läderach chocolate from Switzerland! 

Do you think the day has been over-commercialised, or should we splash out on gifts etc?

Let’s face it, everything has become over commercialised. But if you break it down, it’s one day of the year donated to love and if that’s not a reason to celebrate I don’t know what is. The gifts don’t have to have a hefty price tag. I just love when thought and planning goes into something. Although……. I adore flowers. It sounds suitably soprano-esque, but I will never, ever tire of receiving flowers (dusty pink roses! hint hint!)

You chose to live in Dublin with your two children when you could be based elsewhere. Was it a very expensive choice, especially with childcare?

Childcare is expensive in Ireland. I’m not for one second placing blame on the providers. The crèche my son and previously my daughter attend, earn their weight in gold. They care for our most precious of all possessions. They form close bonds with the children, nurture them and it's priceless. It would be nice if the system was better funded for working parents. 

Home is home and I’m a ‘Dub’ first, last and always. I wouldn’t live anywhere else. I’m also half Galwegian on my Dad’s side which I’m very proud of. The best of both worlds. Each coast remains firmly in my heart. 

Where does Ireland stand in the world of opera?

We’re producing great opera now in Ireland thanks to Irish National Opera and a host of other impressive Irish opera companies. I think we’re producing more than enough for the little island we have to be honest. It’s an expensive endeavour to produce and attendance is crucial to keep it afloat.  Irish National opera is still a fairly young company in the grand scheme of things but has already drawn much attention internationally for the quality and calibre of its work. I think we’re doing great.

Have you ever struggled to make ends meet?

Yes. As a student and hopeful singer, I remember working every weekend and evenings. A work ethic has always been in me. Also, I craved independence and viewed working as a gateway to it. 

What were your best and worst investments?

I don't do stocks or shares. I'm chipping away at my mortgage and hope to be free of it when I retire. 

Do you own property? How is it doing?

We're ten years and counting into our mortgage! 

What did your parents teach you about money?

They never did really. But good work ethic was always in our home. I think it's so important because it filters down into so many facets of life. Work hard and have life balance. Save a little but treat yourself now and then too. 

What are your financial priorities?

Providing for my children and paying my mortgage.

 L'elisir d'amore will be performed in The Gaiety Theatre, Dublin, on  May 25, 27th, 29th and 31st. On Wednesday 4th June, the production is in Wexford National Opera House, while on Saturday 7th June, Cork Opera House is the venue.  Tickets are available on Ticketmaster.