Ariadne auf Naxos was a wonderful success. Both casts did beautifully. I’m happy to report that I was able to sing my part with confidence and poise. This week has made me all the more grateful for my new technique which has given me greater freedom of expression, and has allowed me to be more consistent. (Thank you Mr. Billions, for always expecting more- you’ve really brought me a long ways.)
I’ve been trying to make a point to focus more on my good reviews than my bad reviews. To remember the kind things people say about me and my voice as opposed to dwelling on negative comments and critiques. So for my own record: here’s my favorite two reviews from random audience members-
-“I just want to tell you. My wife and I love opera. We have seen operas in Chicago, New York, and all over Europe. And when I heard you sing, I leaned over to my wife and said, ‘That girl is going to be a singer!’ “
-“Your singing was hauntingly beautiful.” (I don’t know what the haunting part means, but I’ll take it as a compliment!)
Thanks to all of you who e-mailed, texted, called, or prayed for me last week. Your support was felt and appreciated. A special thanks to those who traveled up to watch- it made me realize, I really do perform for the people. There’s nothing better than watching a whole stream of people walk down the hall with smiles on their faces after a performance. Mission accomplished.
Here’s a few more pictures, per your requests.
The three nymphs: Echo, Me; Nayiad, Antonia; Dryiad, Liz.
A silly shot with Tom after the show on Thursday. I have to say, I felt such love and support from Tom after this show. Sometimes I wonder if people think I ought to give up this silly pursuit and move on to more serious affairs. I know Tom dislikes these long weeks of late rehearsals, but he couldn’t have been more proud after Thursday’s performance, and it reminded me that he will support me no matter my decisions for the future. I love you Tom.
Mr. Bamberger, the opera director, and I. It was great to be his “assistant Nymph movement director,” even though I did little more than demonstrate a few arm positions. He said he was thrilled because this was the first time he has ever directed a “ballet dancer.” I still twitch a little when people call me a dancer, “Wait, you mean my sister? No you mean me? Oh yeah, I guess I danced. . . .” Which leads me to say- Thank you Mom for making me take dance all those years. Once again they have paid off.
(Can I just say I had so much fun doing this makeup each night. Isn’t it wild!)
My faithful fans.
I think one of the main reasons I love performing is that it means family (and basically family aka. Mary and Steve.) It was such a thrill to have Lauren and Trevor and Bryce and Dallin for the weekend. And while Cassie and Doug and Arch weren’t able to make it (due to double ear infections- ouch!) Just the anticipation of them coming all week was well worth it.
Thank you all!
4 responses to “Bravi Tutti!”
Congrats. Wish I could have been there.
whish I could have been there to join in the fun. Can’t wait until May:)
It looks like a fun role to play! Thanks for the post, and getting a glimpse into you on stage!
I can’t imagine anyone giving you a bad review. I wish I had been there. I can’t wait for your next performance!