Gavel&Grand;

A unique opportunity for opera lovers - Sir Thomas Allen is offering 4 tickets to the Dress Rehearsal of Turco in Italia by Rossini at the Royal Opera House in London on Wednesday, 8th April 2015. Sir Thomas Allen will host you and your guests at a private meeting backstage after the performance.

Sir Thomas Allen is a widely admired operatic baritone particularly acclaimed for Billy Budd, Ulisse and Beckmesser, as well as the great Mozart roles of Count Almaviva, and of course Don Giovanni. His recent engagements have included ‘Gianni Schicchi’ for Los Angeles Opera and at Spoleto Festival: the title role in ‘Sweeney Todd', and Don Alfonso and Music Master at the Metropolitan Opera, New York.

The Financial Times Seasonal Appeal is supporting the International Rescue Committee. Funds raised will be doubled under the UK Government Aid Match. For more information visit www.rescue-uk/ft

The lot cannot be resold or re-auctioned. You will be asked to disclose the names of those joining in the experience to be given to the artist. Any travel and accommodation for the attendees shall be the buyers responsibility. All experiences are subject to approval by the artist. The charity and FT retain the ability to cancel and refund any successful auction bid which is declined by the artist. The tickets are to be collected at the box office under the winner's name. The Dress Rehearsal is to take place on Wednesday, 8th April 2015, at 11:00 am. You are bidding for the unique opportunity to meet with one of the individuals listed. Please respect the right of the individual not to discuss certain topics in his/her discretion.