Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Back to Blogging

March 19, 2008 - First of all my apologies for the rather long hiatus in posts. Life got very hectic immediately following the close of Tobias and the Angel, and since blogging has not yet become a part of my "daily ritual", the item that slipped off the radar was unfortunately the blog. Life is still incredibly hectic, but I wanted to do at least a brief post to let our faithful readers (I know you're out there eventhough you rarely comment) know what's been going on at OV.

1) Orpheus in the Underworld - Opening night is hurtling towards us like an oncoming train but things are pretty much where they need to be at this moment. Chorus rehearsals began last week and principal music rehearsals begin on Monday. This cast is chockfull of talented, energetic, funny people so it's going to be a real treat working on this zany show with them. It truly is the most outlandish, over-the-top thing we've ever done so be prepared for a dizzingly uproarious night of theatre. The set is being constructed as I type this, but the search for some free TVs and satellite dishes (all of which will be returned to the donors after the show) continues so if you've got a spare one lying around let me know.

2) The 2008-2009 season - We held our second round of auditions on March 7th and 8th, and I'm thrilled to report that between the two rounds of auditions and the return of some treasured past artists, OV is going to have three of the strongest casts in its history. Once I have definite contracts offered and accepted for all roles, I'll blog a bit more about the specifics. Also, my apologies to singers who were told that all casting decisions would be finalized by March 17th. Chalk it up to the best laid plans of mice and men.

3) OV11 Gala - Preparations have also kicked into high gear for our celebratory gala/fundraiser: OV11. We're throwing a fabulous party on May 17th to celebrate OV's first decade and usher in the next. It will be lots of fun and a great way for our supporters to contribute useful funding to the organization so as you plan your Spring social calendar be sure to pencil OV in on May 17th.

4) Artscape - OV has once again been asked to participate in Artscape. Having given audiences Leonard Bernstein's 20th century masterpiece Trouble in Tahiti last year, this year we're presenting two short but glorious baroque pieces complete with period instrument orchestra: Monteclair's Pyramus and Thisbe and Handel's Apollo and Dafne. At the moment, I'm engaged in translating the Monteclair while also keeping all the abovementioned balls in the air. Oh well, I guess that's why they pay me the big bucks.

Anyway, that's a brief overview of what's been going on at Cathedral and Read. I heartily encourage you to take in any or all of the offerings that are coming up. It was great to see so many new faces at Tobias and the Angel, and we hope that you all will become long-term friends of OV. See you at the opera! - John Bowen

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Tuesday, March 4, 2008

They Liked Us, They Really Liked Us

March 4, 2008 - Well Tobias and the Angel is over, but those of use who had the privilege and pleasure of performing it are still in a euphoric bubble brought on by the audiences' overwhelming ovations, the critics' compliments (check out Charles Downey's review on Ionarts), and particularly by the composer's vociferous approval of the production. Jonathan Dove was present at both the Saturday and Sunday performances, and he was very, very pleased with our take on this stunning work. Opera Vivente honored him at a reception after the final performance. I'll be posting some pics from the event shortly. - John Bowen

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Saturday, March 1, 2008

First Two Shows a Great Success

March 1, 2008 - Just a quick note to say that the first two performances of Tobias and the Angel have been a great success. Check out Tim Smith's review in today's Baltimore Sun. There are a few tickets left for this evening and even fewer for tomorrow's matinee so don't wait; order now.

See you at the opera! - John Bowen

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