Thousands Converge On Independence Mall For Night Of Opera
By Justin Udo
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - With blankets in hand and coolers filled with goodies, thousands of folks packed onto Independence Mall to watch Opera Philadelphia's performance of the Barber of Seville as it played on two large screens.
It's not the traditional way to watch the opera, but on a picturesque night, some people tell KYW Newsradio it was the perfect way to watch the opera:
"This is such a lovely evening. I'm going to sit and relax and enjoy the opera and some grapes and cheese and have a good time."
"It's a great day. The weather is gorgeous -- a good way to spend the day outside."
David Devan with Opera Philadelphia says this event is a great way for them to introduce opera to some who otherwise might not come out:
"This is our fourth year, and it just keeps building every year."
The free showing of Friday night's season-opening performance even encouraged audience participation with a cell phone app designed just for the event.