Through lecture, rehearsal, improvisational techniques, use of subtexts, body movement/awareness/ alignment and other singer-actor performance techniques, this course is designed to cover many aspects of opera theater. The course includes working with the similarities and differences of stage, opera and musical theater styles, concentrating on musicianship, learning basic stage deportment/ etiquette and musical/historical acting styles and acting techniques including character development and analysis, use of subtext, and costume requirements. Various technical aspects of opera theater from stage managing, directing and producing an opera are covered, as well as how to become both an informed performer and a discerning audience member.
We also study at least three complete operas from the standard repertoire. This will involve listening to, viewing, analyzing recordings of historical performances, video tapes and televised live performances and attending live opera performances.
Students will be asked to perform frequently in class throughout the year to demonstrate the incorporation of their new skills and performance techniques. Individuals who are ready will work with arias and study audition techniques. In addition to participating in the RU Opera Ensemble program, testing will include written critiques of their own performing as well as papers on outside opera performances attended.
Attendance is required at a minimum of two complete opera
productions during the year.
The RU Opera Ensemble will present the World Premiere of the children's opera, THE FORBIDDEN VALLEY, written especially for RU Opera Ensemble by Dr. Kathryn Garland Obenshain. On November 10, 2007 at 2 p.m., we will perform in Preston Auditorium on the RU campus; on November 7th and 8th we will tour four area elementary schools. November 13th we perform at the Lyric Theatre in Blacksburg.
This Spring the Opera Ensemble will perform in Preston Hall on Sunday, April 12th at 2 p.m. and Tuesday, April 15th at 8 p.m. a program of excerpts from THE DIALOGUES OF THE CARMELITES by Francis Poulenc and the contemporary one-act opera, A GAME OF CHANCE by Seymour Barab.
All students participate in some aspect of our public performances each semester. All participate in the creating of costumes, sets and props, as well as performing. In addition to rehearsing during regular class times, additional time will be scheduled for coachings and rehearsals as needed.