A THEATRE company from Chester has taken on a giant project to present a new opera in the city on Sunday.

Theatre in the Quarter presents the world premiere of The Chester Giants, a community opera, at the amphitheatre at 1pm and 4pm.

Written by Matt Baker and Helen Newall, the opera tells the story of how the giants of Chester have watched over our city for centuries, protecting its people from danger and attracting travellers from faraway lands.

But, just like the little people they protect, giants have dreams which can be chased and hearts that can be broken.

Hundreds of performers, including soloists, choirs, musicians, dancers and drummers, will perform the 45-minute opera, which opens with a giant dance.

Anthony Lewis, who has arranged the music for the band, said: “The musicians have absolutely loved being part of this big project. It is something special to play original music for and about our city.”

The finale of the opera is the anthem Across the World, commissioned by the choir A Handbag of Harmonies for the BBC Music Nation weekend in March and performed at Chester Racecourse to welcome the Olympic Torch.

The children’s anthem, Be The Best That You Can Be, has been adopted as the team song for the Great Britain Paralympic football team.

Captain Matt Dimbylow said: “It’s very powerful and moving and has a strong message which unites people; the song provides an opportunity for the children to really sense some of the values which athletes live.”

Matt said: “Theatre in the Quarter has an ever growing reputation for bringing people from all walks of life together in the creation of brand new exciting theatre work.

“I am so proud of all the performers that have been involved in The Chester Giants opera and I hope the people and visitors of Chester will come and enjoy the world premiere of this new musical legend for our city.”

The Chester Giants will be performed as part of the Big Sing Weekend in Chester Amphitheatre this Sunday at 1pm and 4pm. The event is free and suitable for a family audience.ŠFor more information on the workshops and concerts, visit www.chesterfestivals.co.uk.