Toad Lane Concerts: Nicola Mills

Nicola Mills

Operatic soprano Nicola Mills continued her mission ‘Opera for the people’ with infectious enthusiasm at Toad Lane Concerts at St Mary in the Baum (where, incidentally she was married).

More than ‘opera karaoke’, she creates her programme around items chosen by the audience, and it is backed by sophisticated equipment. Her charming, no-nonsense, down-to-earth approach is immediately engaging, as are her insights into the singer’s world from her own experience.

Originally an Oldham lass, Nicola now lives in Halifax where her singing recently caused a sensation at the Yorkshire Proms at Piece Hall.

Nicola studied at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama for six years followed by 10 years in international opera houses before becoming freelance.

Operatic favourites by Puccini, Gershwin, G &S, Mozart, Dvorak, and Rossini demonstrated that she is a top-notch classical soprano with panache who would grace any stage.

From coloratura to crossover, songs such as What a Wonderful World, and Danny Boy also showed that she has the popular touch. Add to that a stunning finale of Barcelona, you have the hallmarks of a great all-round vocal entertainer… for the people.

The Queen’s Award-winning Toad Lane Concerts are every Wednesday at 12.30pm at St Mary in the Baum, Toad Lane, Rochdale, OL16 1DZ. Entrance fee is £6. Contact 01706 648872 for further information.

Dr Joe Dawson