The legacy of Peter Hall, the esteemed winemaker from Breaky Bottom in East Sussex, extends far beyond the vineyards he tended with such dedication. While his obituary in Other Lives on 3 January rightly highlights his persistence in cultivating grapes at this picturesque location, it is his profound commitment to the world of opera that deserves equal admiration and celebration.
A Dual Passion for Wine and Music
Peter Hall was not just a vintner; he was a cultural patron whose support was instrumental in the arts scene of Sussex. Without his unwavering encouragement and resources, New Sussex Opera might never have emerged as a significant force in regional classical music. This organisation built upon the foundations laid by its predecessor, Breaky Bottom Opera, which Hall actively supported from its inception.
Breaky Bottom Opera: A Barn Transformed
In 1977, a unique and memorable production took place at Breaky Bottom, showcasing Hall's innovative spirit. Purcell's Dido and Aeneas was mounted in Peter's barn, a space that underwent a remarkable transformation. Cleared of cows and freshly whitewashed, the barn was fitted with hay bales to serve as audience seating, creating an intimate and rustic setting for the performance.
The production itself was a testament to creativity under constraints. The orchestra consisted of a modest string quartet, while the chorus of four singers donned unconventional costumes—black squares that resembled teabags, with their heads, hands, and feet protruding. Despite these humble beginnings, the event was a triumph, capturing the essence of community-driven art.
From Barn to Grand Stage
This success at Breaky Bottom Opera paved the way for more ambitious projects under New Sussex Opera. The organisation went on to stage grand productions, such as Mussorgsky's Boris Godunov and Britten's Peter Grimes, both held at Sussex University. These performances were met with spectacular acclaim, drawing larger audiences and cementing the opera's reputation in the region.
Hall's role in this evolution cannot be overstated. His belief in the power of opera to enrich local culture provided the necessary impetus for these ventures to flourish. By blending his passions for winemaking and music, he created a lasting impact that resonates through Sussex's artistic and agricultural communities.
In remembering Peter Hall, we honour not only a skilled winemaker but a visionary who understood the importance of nurturing the arts. His contributions to both the vineyard at Breaky Bottom and the opera scene in Sussex serve as an inspiring example of how dedication to one's interests can foster broader cultural growth.
