Singer Spotlight

Summer Opera Festival Roles:  Frugola in Il Tabarro, La maestra della novizie in Suor Angelica
 
​What are you looking forward to most about preparing your role? I have sung the role of Frugola in two different productions in the past in New York City, one with small instrumental ensemble, the other with piano. The last time I did it was at least 8 years ago. I'm looking forward to reviewing the role and thinking more about my Italian, my phrasing and dynamics. I understand the character pretty well. Il Tabarro is one of my favorite operas, either to watch/listen or perform. There is so much emotion and passion in this one act piece. The music sets an atmosphere--there is a lot of tone painting in the score, and I find that Il Tabarro is extremely exciting in the music itself. When you add nuanced acting it can be a phenomenal operatic experience for the performers and the audience. 
 
If you had to choose a pop song that best describes the character you are portraying, what would it be? This is a very interesting question. I rarely listen to pop music so I can't answer it though! 
 
What do you think will be the most challenging part about preparing your role? Il Tabarro is a challenging musical score to begin with. Even though I've sung it before it is very tricky, so I will have to work hard to bring back what I remember and make sure that it is accurate musically. 
 
Why do you love to sing opera? I am attracted to opera because of the acting aspect. I acted before I sang and it is fun to be in character and portray someone else. I love music, and the instrument that I've trained the most is my voice. I also like musical theatre but I made a distinctive choice to go into opera because of the typing in musical theatre--I would have had a hard time since I didn't fit the typical casting. 
 
Aside from singing, name a talent/stupid human trick/hoby others might not be aware of .... I am also a visual artist. My favorite medium is soft pastel and I am learning to do portraits of humans.