Norma - meet the cast - Veronica Brooks is Norma!

The character of Norma is complex to say the least. A druidic priestess, commanding deep respect and devotion from her Celtic people, she repeatedly tells them that the gods say they must peacefully obey their Roman conquerors. However, unbeknown to her people she has (for reasons not explained in the story) entered into a secret romantic liaison with Pollione, the hated Roman pro-consul, and borne him two children. When his attentions turn elsewhere her outwardly calm and serene appearance is shattered and she experiences the full range of conflicting human emotions which lead her to urge her people into battle, bloodshed and destruction.

Veronica has performed with Heber Opera for over 20 years and during that time has had the opportunity to play some of the really great soprano roles. Her favourites have included Lady Macbeth, Tosca, Violetta (La Traviata), Lucia di Lammermoor and Fiordiligi (Cosi Fan Tutte) as well as many other rewarding roles such as Leonora (in both Fidelio and Trovatore), Aida, and Amelia (Nabucco).

This current role of Norma is considered to be one of the most difficult in the soprano repertoire so we are indeed fortunate that Veronica was prepared to tackle it. Now very experienced with our ”in the round” style of production, not only is Veronica an accomplished performer but with her beautiful voice and excellent vocal technique is more than able to do full justice to Bellini’s music. Audiences are in for a real treat as there are some truly lovely arias, duets and trios in this seldom performed opera.

Veronica studies singing with Elizabeth Brice and also indulges her love of opera in her work as Director of Organisational Development at Glyndebourne. Veronica is married to Andrew and they have two children.