Opening the Forsyth Barr Stadium

Yep, we were there, giving John Key a hand in opening the new stadium here in Dunedin, very early this morning. The ceremony started at 7 am, but the Choir had to be there by 6:30 am, so our day started way earlier than usual. However, with hearts and souls as brave as can be, we reported for duty on this very crisp winter's morning.

Despite the cold everyone was quite excited - with the odd yawn here and there while we waited for our turn to trot out onto the field. We provided the choral support for soloists and backing group, yes, and a pipe band(!), in the singing of 'How Great Thou Art' and the National Anthem, both in Maori and English.

Walking out afterwards I heard a 'spectator' say that it was a "very impressive opening"!

Last night we had a rehearsal session and here is a lovely pic (courtesy Stella Cullington) of the Choir (again out in the cold) on that beautifull paddock:

City of Dunedin Choir at rehearsal for the stadium opening

Video from Channel 9 news bulletin:
http://www.ch9.co.nz/content/forsyth-barr-stadium-officially-opened

City of Dunedin Choir sings at the stadium opening (Photo: Ian Thomson)

Photo album of the opening, by Ian Thomson: www.nzdigital.org/Stadium5811/
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