14 Aug 2011 – too wet, even for an Opera Fan!

Was planning to go the annual outdoor opera where they will be playing the highlights of this season performance; Aida, La bohème and Magic Flute, a tempting program. Unfortunately the rains started this morning and the forecast for heavier downpours this evening! Being an opera fan, rain or shine would have made the effort to go. But those were the days, now- nah just stay indoors and with my laptop! (no TV or radio for the past 3 months). 

And what a very pleasant surprise, Anne S stopped by for a few minutes on her way to catch her plane to Trondheim.

Last year, 14 Aug: a beautiful Sat evening with an outdoor performance by the Oslo Opera at the Opera House where the stage was a floating platform with a large crowd and fireworks to end the evening. A little taste to start the opera season was very delightful, even with just standing space! Pix are from 2010 with Ingrid & HansK.

Operas were introduced to me by my father who was an opera fan. One of the first and most unforgettable (not because of the voice or the performance!) life opera performance was in 1967@The Gaiety/Dublin. Verdi’s La Traviata/The Fallen Woman. Do not remember who sang the main roles (could not have been that fantastic!) Alfredo brought down the stage-props by pulling too hard on a door. It was hilarious 🙂 🙂 🙂

In 3 Acts, this opera is the all time favourite, about a courtesan Violetta who finds true love with Alfredo. To my ears no one can be compared to Maria Callas where Violetta is concerned. The drama, her voice, music, costumes etc, seems like this role is specially tailored for her.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hv5hCEf8qSw&feature=related

The famous Drinking Song from Act 1 performed here by Placido Domingo and Teresa Stratas, a well-staged scene with sub titles.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NcKdnkGBSgA     

Old Lady at Opera: Did you like the opera, dear?
Vivian: It was so good, I almost peed my pants!
Edward Lewis: She said she liked it better than Pirates of Penzance – Pretty Woman