About Thames Opera

Who We Are

Thames Opera Company are a newly formed community opera company based in Thurrock with a real emphasis on community. We put our chorus at the heart of our company, and we are open to anyone in the Thames Gateway area. So if you are a resident of Thurrock, Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Redbridge, Brentwood, Basildon, Southend, Essex, East London or Kent who has always wanted to sing in a choir, we would love to hear from you!

We passionately believe that opera should be accessible and enjoyed by all and invite everyone, no matter their background or musical ability to come and experience the joy that singing and performing opera can bring.

No previous singing experience is required
There is no audition
There is no requirement to sing alone or to read music

We were granted charitable status in November 2022, and our charity's objects are:

For the promotion of the arts for the benefit of the public through the presentation of dramatic and other arts, in particular opera.
For the advancement of education of the public in dramatic and other arts, predominantly in the Thames Gateway area.

What We Do

As our name suggests, Thames Opera Company has an ambitious and diverse repertoire with a focus on, though not exclusively, opera. We aim to perform pieces staged or semi staged, and in their original language.

We provide rehearsal tracks, tips and techniques to grow our members' abilities and confidence, whilst having a lot of fun along the way.

We are very friendly, open and supportive choral group, committed to sharing our passion for this wonderful and diverse art.

Where We Came From

Thames Opera Company was created in late 2020 by members of the Royal Opera House Thurrock Community Chorus (ROHTCC).

Founded in 2011, ROHTCC was a much loved choir in Thurrock, renowned for its high standards, performing in such places as the Royal Opera House, Milton Court, Union Chapel, the Southbank Centre and other prestigious venues. Just like the chorus of the Thames Opera Company, It was drawn from a very diverse range of people from all walks of life, from complete novices to experienced performers.

Sadly, in 2020 because of funding cuts caused by the Covid pandemic, the Royal Opera House withdrew their funding, and Thames Opera Company was born in its place. We seek to build on the decade long legacy of the ROHTCC, continuing to bring opera and choral music to audiences old and new.

Thames Opera Company embodies a joyous and diverse spirit, and invites you to join us on our musical journey.