Comments on: “Exploiting” Opera is the First Step to Making People Care

By: Ms. Vernay

Ms. Vernay — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 05:51:37 +0000

I live in the United States and have not as yet seen “Pop Star to Opera Star”. However, allow me to comment on the subject of ways opera can broaden its audiences beyond the hallowed walls of the standard opera houses.
One way in which that is being accomplished here in America is through opera-in-the-schools programs. Opera companies send small troupes of singers into schools and reach our children, the next generation of arts consumers and audiences, performing either operas written expressly for kids, or standard operas such as “Hansel and Gretel”, excerpted and performed on the kids’ level. Last week and the week before, I had the privilege of portraying the Witch in several performances of the above-mentioned opera, and the children were mesmerized with the shows, and shrieked with laughter and delight throughout the performances. Yes, if opera can “turn on” and excite our CHILDREN, then it has hope of a bright future!

By: Jim McCarthy

Jim McCarthy — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:15:54 +0000

Duly noted, John. In my defense, I did say “almost” no one had ever heard of her. Obviously, opera folks have heard of her, as she’s very successful in the field.

The whole point is that if there’s a desire in the genre to see it develop relevancy beyond its current walls, it’s going to need some ways of getting to people.

My secret fear is that the reverse is actually true: Many opera people want it to stay their own private club. In my view, that’s bad for everyone, especially, ultimately, the form of opera.

By: John Crabtree

John Crabtree — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 21:09:17 +0000

Mmmmm, don’t think any serious “other singers” thought the show was great’ This world renowned opera critic 9 see link below ) sums it up so well. By the way I have heard of Evans, was there in Los Angeles when she won her Grammy in 2008.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/culturecritics/rupertchristiansen/7020195/Popstar-to-Operastar-makes-me-sick.html

By: Jim McCarthy

Jim McCarthy — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 17:29:49 +0000

It really is the same thing, isn’t it?

By: Kara Larson

Kara Larson — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 20:47:13 +0000

Does this remind anyone else of “The Nutcracker is Bad for Ballet like Easter is Bad for Churches”? God forbid anything should appeal to lots of people!!!