The feminist opera destroying the ‘witches, bitches, britches’ archetype

An opera staged in a bathroom is delivering an important message about gender roles and equality.

Chamber Pot Opera is performed in the unusual setting of a bathroom. Photo: Sam Boneham

When theatre director and sound designer Clemence Williams was studying classical voice at the Conservatorium, she was told women could only play three roles in opera: witches, bitches or britches.

Unperturbed and with a sense of defiance, she sought to bring to life an idea that ignored the advice of her teachers, and, thus, Chamber Pot Opera was born.

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