Meaning: The quote by Bruce Beresford, an Australian film director known for his work in both film and opera, emphasizes the importance of attracting young people to opera. Through his words, Beresford is advocating for the preservation and appreciation of opera as a vibrant and relevant art form, rather than dismissing it as outdated or irrelevant. In his view, opera represents a repository of some of the most magnificent music and drama created by humankind, and he believes that it is crucial to ensure that young people have the opportunity to experience and engage with this rich cultural heritage.

Beresford's statement reflects a broader concern within the opera community about the future of the art form. Opera has a reputation for being elitist, inaccessible, and perhaps even outdated, and there is a constant need to attract new audiences, particularly younger generations, in order to ensure its continued relevance and sustainability. To achieve this, opera companies and cultural institutions have been exploring innovative approaches to programming, marketing, and outreach, aiming to dispel myths about opera and make it more appealing and accessible to a wider audience.

One of the main challenges in attracting young people to opera is dispelling the perception that it is an elitist and inaccessible art form. Many young people may feel that opera is not for them, either due to preconceived notions about its cultural exclusivity or a lack of exposure to it in their upbringing. As a result, efforts to attract younger audiences often involve educational outreach programs, community engagement initiatives, and the development of initiatives that showcase the diversity and relevance of opera in today's society.

In addition to addressing the perception of elitism, opera companies and cultural institutions have also been exploring new ways to present and stage opera productions to make them more engaging and relevant to contemporary audiences. This includes commissioning new works that reflect modern themes and experiences, as well as reinterpreting classic operas in innovative and thought-provoking ways. By doing so, opera companies aim to demonstrate that opera is not a static art form stuck in the past, but rather a living, evolving, and dynamic art form that can speak to the concerns and experiences of today's audiences.

Furthermore, the use of digital technologies and social media has become an integral part of efforts to attract young people to opera. Many opera companies have embraced digital platforms to reach and engage with younger audiences, offering live streams of performances, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive experiences that provide insights into the creative process behind opera productions. By leveraging digital media, opera companies are able to connect with new audiences and demystify the art form, making it more accessible and relatable to young people who may have limited exposure to opera.

It is also important to recognize the role of arts education in fostering an appreciation for opera among young people. By integrating opera into school curricula, providing opportunities for students to attend performances, and offering educational resources that contextualize opera within a broader cultural and historical framework, young people can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the art form. Arts education plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of opera enthusiasts and ensuring the continued relevance of opera in the cultural landscape.

In conclusion, Bruce Beresford's quote underscores the importance of engaging young people with opera and dispelling misconceptions about the art form. Efforts to attract younger audiences to opera involve addressing the perception of elitism, presenting opera in innovative and relevant ways, leveraging digital platforms, and prioritizing arts education. By doing so, opera companies and cultural institutions can ensure that opera remains a vital and cherished art form for generations to come.