INTERVIEW: Brooklyn Opera Works digs deep to present Baroque gem
Brooklyn audiences will soon have the chance to enjoy a Baroque opera that is hardly ever performed. The opportunity comes thanks to Brooklyn Opera Works, headed by artistic director and producer Lina Tetriani.
Echo et Narcisse, which plays Aug. 17 and 19 at Brooklyn Music School Playhouse, is based on the myth of Echo and Narcissus. It centers on the themes of love, vanity, lust, jealousy and, of course, narcissism. The work, considered a drame lyrique, comes from the late 18th century and the hands of Christoph Willibald Gluck. To capture some of its original sound, Brooklyn Opera Works has employed the help of conductor Tali Makell, who will lead an ensemble of period instruments.
Recently, Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with Tetriani about the new production. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
What do you find special about Echo et Narcisse?
Some of the rarely heard music, especially the ensembles, are absolutely beautiful and deserve more attention. I was also drawn to the theme of Echo and Narcissus because the timely story deals with the themes of vanity/narcissism and the power of human compassion.
For the cast and creative members, is the show challenging?
Yes, it is challenging for several reasons: The recitative is accompanied by the orchestra/ensemble throughout (recitativo accompagnato). The piece is in old French, and some of the vocal writing requires exceptional control. It also includes several ballets/dances, but this was an opportunity to involve pre-professional dancers in the program.
How long are rehearsals for a staging like this one?
About five weeks.
What was your original goal when you founded Brooklyn Opera Works? Do you feel like the company has met its original goal?
Brooklyn Opera Works is designed to train the new generation of opera singers and give performance opportunities to emerging artists who are passionate about engaging diverse contemporary audiences. We are meeting our goals by offering core classes and master classes with world-class experts while presenting shows with updated productions with engaging and relevant concepts. We are also dedicated to growing the outreach portion of the program in order to bring this complete art form to the community at large and develop future audiences.
What’s next for Brooklyn Opera Works?
Next, we will be producing a double bill in January 2018: a contemporary opera by Christopher Cerrone, All Wounds Bleed, and American opera scenes from such operas as Vanessa and Porgy and Bess.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Echo et Narcisse, a production by Brooklyn Opera Works, will play Aug. 17 and 19 at the Brooklyn Music School Playhouse in Brooklyn, New York. Click here for more information and tickets.
