David Russell, recently embarked on an extraordinary journey into the world of opera. His destination? Glyndebourne, the renowned estate nestled in the picturesque countryside of Sussex. This visit provided David with a rare opportunity to immerse himself in the splendour of Glyndebourne, to further inspire his vision for Jimbour House.
“The history of Glyndebourne has many parallels with Jimbour House, starting off with small beginnings in 1934, and giving the local community an opportunity to enjoy the highest levels of music. The integration of a music festival with a significant country house and garden reflects, at a more developed level, the atmosphere and experience we are seeking to create at Jimbour House. In many ways the Glyndebourne experience is unique and our purpose in the visit was to identify those parts of the Glyndebourne magic which are capable of adaptation to our work at Jimbour.”
Immersed in the summertime charm of the English countryside, Glyndebourne festivals create an atmosphere that showcases nature at its finest. Beyond the captivating performances, the Glyndebourne experience extends to the presentation of local produce, encompassing not just the exquisite meals served in their renowned restaurants but also the delightful picnic baskets. These offerings not only feature the fruits of the developing English Wine industry but also include vibrant flowers and captivating arts and crafts.
“The peace in the surrounding garden is something one could only get in a place like Glyndebourne and is a dramatic contrast to the drama of the Opera.” Russell says.
He emphasises the remarkable atmosphere at Glyndebourne, where a perfect balance of meticulous attention to detail and genuine warmth permeates the surroundings, reminiscent of authentic country hospitality. This harmonious fusion of refined opera and the bountiful beauty of nature creates an enchanting experience, further heightened by the breathtaking gardens that envelop visitors.
David acknowledges that the most profound inspiration he derives from his visit is the realisation that, “with commitment and vision, a world class event can be created which will be recognised as such world wide.”
For Jimbour House, the support of the arts has always been an integral part of its regional contribution. Having hosted concert performances within its walls since 1978, and subsequently introducing Opera in 2003, the presence of opera has become an indelible component of Jimbour’s narrative. Today, it is inconceivable to imagine Jimbour without the enriching presence of opera, which has become a cornerstone of its identity.
Looking ahead, David Russell envisions an ambitious future for Jimbour House, striving to place Queensland prominently on the map for Australia-wide and international cultural events. He believes that by achieving this goal, they will not only honour the longstanding vision of Jimbour’s custodians but also pay homage to the estate’s historical significance, including its role as a staging point for the Indigenous Bunya Festivals. It is with immense pleasure that David and his team dedicate themselves to this endeavour.
