Gergiev recognised with Outstanding Achievement Award

Whilst world renowned Valery Gergiev was in London this April to conduct Mahler's 2nd Symphony with the London Symphony Orchestra, Korn/Ferry Opera Holland Park Producer James Clutton took the opportunity to meet up with him during rehearsals. Almost two years after the pair last met Clutton was there to present the Maestro with the OHP Friends Award for Outstanding Achievement.

Tchaikovsky's Queen of Spades was a highlight of the 2006 OHP season. However, at one point it looked as if the production might have to be cancelled when the leading tenor was unable to sing. In a great show of support for the company, Gergiev offered Clutton the services of Vicktor Lutsyuk for the role. The tenor saved the show by stepping in to perform the part in an unfamiliar production, having arrived at the theatre just hours before the performance. Lutsyuk's performance was a resounding hit with the audience and Clutton remembers the nervous excitement of that evening, marking it as one of the best of his producing career.

In appreciation of his support, Opera Holland Park Friends, The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea and all the staff at Opera Holland Park recognised the Maestro with the award.

This season Opera Holland Park will be producing the Tchaikovsky opera Iolanta. On hearing this Maestro Gergiev expressed his interest in the production and remarked to Clutton "you know where I am if you need me!"

View details of the 2008 Season.