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 FORBIDDEN VALLEY, written especially for RU Opera Ensemble by Dr. Kathryn Garland Obenshain. On November 15, 2008 at 2 p.m., we will perform in Preston Auditorium on the RU campus; on November 12th and 13th we will tour four area elementary schools.
This Spring the Opera Ensemble will perform in our new recital hall in the Covington Fine Arts Center on Sunday, April 19th at 2 p.m. and Tuesday, April 21st at 8 p.m. in scenes and arias from the standard and contemporary opera repertoire.
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.