I am an opera fan just like the Opera ProCantanti Company. I attended the Opera performance of Norma on February 24th. I am very happy that finally some group of singers decided to take on this difficult but beautiful art form. I give this company a rating of 5 out 5 for having the guts to go on performing such difficult repertoire. I am not a professional on this art form but, I have seen a lot of operas at the Arena di Verona in Italy, at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and I am a season subscriber at the Vancouver Opera. I have also attended some productions at the Chan Centre with the UBC Students Opera Ensemble. As I was watching Norma a couple of ideas came to mi mind and I would like to share them with you. I would like to do this on the most humble way.
1. You guys have to loose the costumes...Do a concert opera instead.
2. Some of the chorus members are overacting to the point that is distracting to concentrate on the main characters.
3. In order to have more people attending the opera and falling in love with the art form - why don't you have a free outdoor concert this summer, may I suggest somewhere quiet in Stanley Park. Rent a gazebo, some chairs and you'll have a beautiful scenery which is our natural beauty of Vancouver.
4. The opera Norma did not take place over a period of 3 hours but, Norma never took her tiara off. The scene when she is alone in her bedroom with her children, Norma should look stress out and depressed...she is trying to kill her kids but, what do we see? Norma wearing her tiara and this is why I strongly suggest that if you are going to use costumes you should do so convincingly. Or better yet, loose the costumes and do a concert opera style.
5. Pollione...please leave the altar alone do not reap its leaves and do not step on them this will bring you bad luck at the end.....
6. Adalgisa, was beautifully sung a little bit too loud in some parts but she has a good toned voice. I think she should try singing the role of Norma.
7. The pianist at least should give a cue to the chorus. When the big scene in the "guerra, guerra..." a couple of singers started to soon. Honestly, I've noticed that the pianist is just playing this wonderful score and she does not get involved at all. Its like okay, guys you are on your own. I'm just the pianist. To the pianist...Please get involve, feel the music, lead and you will see a big difference.8. I know that all of you whom are doing this is because of the love of opera but, couldn't you find a nicer, cleaner venue? This theater... I swear to God! there were some mice eating all the popcorn that has fallen on the ground.
Please forgive me...But I am also an opera lover myself and have a lot of respect for the art form. I only wish for it to be performed at its finest. Keep doing what you are doing, you guys are amazing. Don't feel discouraged from what I have written I consider it "constructive criticism".
I will see you for the Lucia, Rigoletto, and La Traviata.
Tristan
