Pop singer in bid to woo new audience to opera

The pair backed the Undress For The Opera scheme which was unveiled today at the English National Opera (ENO) in central London.

ENO artistic director James Berry said he wanted to build on the success of Albarn’s Doctor Dee show which attracted a new audience to the venue.

He said: “In a sense, Undress For The Opera, this new audience initiative, was really inspired by Doctor Dee and seeing a completely different audience in this magnificent theatre was so heart-warming.”

The plan includes a series of informal evening shows which will have no dress code and a “more relaxed” atmosphere.

Prices for the best seats will be held at £25 and the audience will have an introduction to the show, be able to download a synopsis of the opera, and be invited to a post-performance party with cast and company members.

Albarn, who admitted to a “struggle with the word opera”, compared its reputation to world music.

He said: “We are carrying into this century ideas that belonged to a previous generation.”