When an unlucky bystander got thrown out of a window in Life is a Dream…
Action shot by Tim Robbins
(Just in case you’re worried, the body is a dummy…we generally try not to kill anyone in the making of our productions)
JN
...not what you expect from opera
2 months ago
30th March
I will attribute this first paragraph of comments to my friend who came to a second performance of Life is a Dream. Estella, (Donna) you were “charismatic” and “believable”. My mate appreciated the “surround sound” of the chorus and the whole performance was “fabulous again”! She tried to gain my approval for a third visit because there was “not enough time to see everything” but I declined her beggings. Enough is enough. My friend is a troublemaker (in the nicest possible way of course) so banning her from attending any future Life is a Dream shows was imperative for my own peace of mind!!!!
According to certain chorus members, King Basil (Paul) could be watched “all night” – must be the cardigan!!!!! And Rosaura (Wendy) I simply adore your red siren, slinky number of a dress! On you it looks superb. On me it would cling to all the bits of my anatomy that did not need further emphasis. Botheration!!!!
Not that I’m showing off or anything but I know, and have had dinner with, Birmingham’s current Poet Laureate, Jan Watts. (Just thought I’d slip that in there!!!!)
I would recommend that everyone try a face masque once in a while because it works wonders. Skin is sooooooooo smooth.
A real kinship thing is going on in the female changing room. There is talk of some of us staying in touch outside of the opera. Is this a good thing? Ladies, no offence (but be ready to be offended) but you’re a bit on the loud side whilst I, on the other hand, am not. So tell me, where could I be seen with you, in public, without fear of embarrassment? I’m a classy chick and I have standards!!!!
MG
28th March
“Amazing,” “Great,” “Fantastic”. These are just some of the words used by a friend of mine and her next door neighbour (who’s a first timer) to describe yesterday’s show. They loved the centrality and nearness of the orchestra (gush, gush); they loved us barging amongst them (gush, gush); and although it felt scary at times, they jolly well moved when indicated to do so-what fun (gush, gush.) Actors in the orchestral pit windows-you get a special mention. They admired your total engagement with the acting process (treble gush.) With all this gushing, it’s a wonder I made it through my Spinach and Aloo Paneer Balti and rice. (Ladypool Road, you are a haven to such as I!!!!) My friend loved the performance so much that she specifically stopped off at a cash point in order to purchase tickets for tonight’s production. Yes folks, my friend is to make a return visit. Some people just cannot get enough!!!
Chorus Master Jon is not very happy with us. Were we really late for every entry in the first half? (Every single entry? Oh boy!!!) Sorry. I hope we redeemed ourselves in the second half!!!!
It is heartening to know that even the Profs get it wrong sometimes. Astolfo, (Joseph) I saw the fancy footwork you had to do in order to re-position yourself for Estella’s (Donna) physical attack. Nice move! During the interval, I complimented Joseph on his expert manoeuvrings and he abashedly replied, “Thank you”. Isn’t that sweet?!!!!
First class stamps are to go up to 60p by the end of April 2012. I am appalled! How am I to receive a love letter/love poem /writings from a secret admirer if they cannot afford the postage? Yeah, yeah, I know all about texts and emails but they’re not the same. I so lament the days of yesteryear!!!!
MG
26th March
*Correction* - We were not to be blamed for the missed orchestral cue - there were other extenuating factors. What these extenuating factors were was not elaborated upon. Typical!!!!!
Barbara and Judith, I wish to ‘Thank you’ for the delicious edible goodies that you enticed us with during the interval (Judith, your homemade fruit cake was highly commendable.) Personally, my taste buds think you’re both wonderful; however, my waistline is not in agreement!
Have I got a doppelganger? (A what?!!!) Is there someone within the Birmingham Opera Company who looks like me? If this imposter is still around, would someone please be so kind as to point her out to me because she has to go. I am an original, ask anyone!!!! Contrary to popular belief, I was not part of the Othello production although I was an audience member for the final performance. (Keel, your Iago was without rival. I was (and still am) in awe!!!!)
Moving swiftly onwards, Dave I-thought-we-were-friends (Actor) says that my little bloggings are ‘tough’. (Whatever can you mean?!!!) To illustrate this point, he has threatened to bring to my attention some of my more choice one-liners. Oh dear, are these writings (and yes, I do use the term loosely) going to come back and bite me on the derriere?
Just so everyone is made aware, cheap bras are to be had – check out the supermarket chain with a clothing department. I am not going to reveal which supermarket because I am not being paid an advertiser’s fee! And in case you’re wondering, I picked up this bit of important information in the female changing room. Women of the chorus, you are priceless!!!!
MG
2 months ago
Thoughts from John Read (on the far right in the above picture). John is an actor in Life is a Dream and has been in every single Birmingham Opera production! He also sits on our board.
From the Cradle to the Grave
Well not quite, more like; from small talk to first date, to conception, through gestation, to birth and on to the christening.
I have had the most amazing, enlightening and fulfilling experience over the last 16 or so months as, along with a few fellow participants and a handful of students from UoB and The Conservatoire, I have seen how an opera starts life as a blank piece of paper and becomes the work of art that we are currently performing. It is hard to know exactly how much we helped or hindered Jonathan and Alasdair throughout this process, but they did genuinely seem receptive to some of our ideas and comments, so maybe they got as much out of it as we did?
On the day Jonathan played the finished score, on piano singing all the roles, we immediately knew that a beautiful piece of music had been conceived. To then get to hear it, months later, performed by the orchestra for the first time left me feeling moved and elated, and I know, those of us that were present on that Thursday evening all felt the same.
To then witness how a piece of music, along with a large, enthusiastic, harmonious chorus, spread out at different levels in a vast warehouse, is fine tuned was nothing short of amazing! I have never remained so quiet, for so long, at a rehearsal, as I did that night and the following nights. It was an education to witness Will, the Jonathan’s and Graham working together to subtly change ‘things’ such as the dynamics of a section of music, or the position of a chorus member and then to actually experience the difference, and improvement this small change made. This was a new experience for me, and one that would normally only be witnessed by professionals; one of the many reasons for being a part of Birmingham Opera Company.
We are now half way through the run and very soon it will all be over. Oh my god! What will I do with myself? (Oh yea, that’s right there is another show looming. Something to do with a day of the week, helicopters, light, oh and a camel I believe). With each performance I fall more in love with Life is a Dream; sat with my pillow case on my head I mouth the words to the ending of act 3 and then slowly walk off set with a genuine smile on my face. I have had people at the shows say it is the best thing we have ever done; I have had my 2,’ twenty something’ nephews come to their first ever opera and say how fantastic it was; bearing in mind they are your typical out on the town every night, 10 pints of Stella, football playing kind of guys, this is a real compliment, and proves that what we, as a company, are doing is working.
I actually feel very privileged to have been a part of this production because it really is turning out to be best thing we have ever done. On top of that, the merry band of actors this year, are some of the best ever recruited by BOCO, both in terms of ability and attitude. It never ceases to amaze me how such a diverse group of people gel so well and how friendships are formed. I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible in the future.
Well that’s it, lunch time is over and I must return to my paid job. A big thank you to absolutely everybody involved in Life is a Dream. Not just Graham, Jonathan, Will, Ron and Richard but also the fab backstage staff, all the techies, the bar staff (especially the bar staff!) and anyone else I may have forgotten to mention.
Finally, a massive, well deserved well done to all the members of the chorus. Having accepted Graham’s challenge you have all worked long and hard to perfect the art of singing beautifully whilst running round the space manically. I believe you have set the bar, for future productions, extremely high, so you only have yourselves to blame! King Basil may have seen his downfall in the stars, all I see is a glowing future for you stars.
JR
2 months ago
Some great photos from Saturday night’s performance, taken by our very own Chorus singer Tim Robbins! Check out more of his photos at http://www.flickr.com/photos/16944765@N06/
Today is a ‘golden day’ for us lot in the office, not only is it lovely and sunny outside, but there is no show on today so we are getting back on top of things (such as writing lovely blogs), and we might even be able to go home tonight and get some washing done (pants are running dangerously low).
Also…THERE ARE STILL A FEW TICKETS LEFT FOR LIFE IS A DREAM (so if you are at all concerned they might run out, get some now. Better to be safe than sorry I reckon.)
More musings from Marcia coming soon!
JN
2 months ago
Really fantastic first night last night, and there’s such a great atmosphere in the space when its full of audience members. We are very lucky to have some great production shots straight from the lense of Pete Ashton:
http://iam.peteashton.com/birmingham-operas-life-is-a-dream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/peteashton/sets/72157629274130650/
Thank you Pete!
JN
2 months ago
This is the moment where it all comes together…
Excited and nervous all at the same time…a world premiere is on its way!
Updates on how it all went tomorrow. Those who have bought tickets, we’ll see you tonight!
JN
2 months ago
20th March
Actors – congratulations on your performance last night. You have collectively put the chorus to shame as we were told that we could do better (and we should up our game for Wednesday’s performance or words will be uttered!!!!!) Exhalation of breath and big slump of shoulders.
One of the audience members turned out to be one of my friends (whose Polish musical drama I acted in as an ethereal Cleopatra look-alike, Spanish singing spy. Don’t ask!!!!) My friend text me to say that the opera ‘was a bit dirty sometimes’. Er, what kind of constructive criticism am I to take from this? If I’m to make an educated guess, I think he’s referring mainly to the Actors and the Profs. What about the singing? Some people are so ungrateful. No more favours for him then!!!!
Back to the frock saga and my battle dress preparations. I got away with a pair of shorts and 2 camisole tops but I forgot the Vaseline! I therefore performed with bare arms and yes, I am brave because I do not like the cold so everyone, keep those backstage hugs coming. No-one will be turned away!!!!
A bit of a diversion now: - did you know that Idris Elba (of Luther fame) is being considered for the role of Nelson Mandela because of his tall stature? (Nelson Mandela is 6’ 4”). So fickle but there again, that’s Hollywood for you!
19th March
We have had 2 run-throughs of the opera now and I feel (as I’m sure many others do) a little better. I’m not going to say confident because that would be an untruth but I am more assured of my entrances and exits than I was at yesterday’s rehearsal! Would someone please enlighten me as to why there is so much repetition (lyrics-wise) in an operatic piece? Is it to ensure that the audience gets the meaning of what we’re singing about? Is it to repeat beautiful sounding phrases? Or, (and this is more akin to what I believe), is it a device used simply to confuse chorus members? Hmmmmm ………
Right. I know you’ve all been waiting for news on the frock! I tried to cover the top half with a very nice pink (pink!) pashmina with pink beaded tassels but to no avail. It’s been requested that I leave off the pashmina so now my arms will receive the commando treatment!!!! Chorus members forever at the ready have been giving me ideas for possible battle dress under said (tissue paper) frock: - thermal vests, camisoles, ¾ length leggings, shorts, layered tights and even Vaseline. Yep, Vaseline to rub on my arms (footballers do this all the time apparently!!!!)
Oh my goodness. If any of you see me screaming and battling heroically with these items of clothing on the dressing room floor then please, instead of guffawing at me, give me a hand!!!!
It is our first public dress rehearsal tomorrow evening and we have been informed that we should expect the show to be ‘hairy’ to say the least. On behalf of the chorus fraternity (because of course, I am their self-appointed mouthpiece!) could I please ask the audience to move when they see us approaching. Timing is of the essence and the orchestra will not wait for us to leisurely position ourselves. Thank you for your co-operation!!!!
Good Luck everyone!!!!!!
18th March
Chorus and Actors, the accolades just keep on coming. I do believe we even had an “excellent” from Graham. Praise indeed!!!!
I don’t know what it is about the men singing (in Act 1 Scene 1) but it is way too much testosterone all at once, for me to handle. Whoeeeeeeeeeee ….. Please pass me a handkerchief with which to mop my fevered brow. How am I going to last during our performances without wanting to capitulate to my base desires which the men (when they’re singing that is), bring to the fore. Hold me back someone!!!!!!
Whoever doubted that women can multitask did not see what I witnessed this afternoon. Liz sang all the Prof parts, played the piano, followed the conductor whilst (wait for it) turning the pages of her musical score. Incredible. Liz, you deserve a commendation for your sheer ‘can-do’ attitude. I applaud and bow down to your obvious superiority!!!!!
It’s a dress rehearsal tomorrow so, back to the frock! Some female chorus members were admiring the aforementioned creation as it hung dejectedly from the clothing rail. It’s ok folks. I know what you are trying to do. I appreciate your efforts on my behalf and love you all the more for it. All together now, ahhhhhhh……..
Niall Crowley – I read your piece in the Independent and you make us sound exiting and sensational (which of course we are.) Thanks mate.
17th March
Fabulous. Fantastic. Good. Well done. One Actor (Dave) commented that we ‘sounded wonderful’ and another Actor proclaimed that our final entrance into the performance space was ‘powerful’. Chorus, we kicked butt at tonight’s rehearsal! Hold that head up high (but not too elevated as you’ll have problems fitting through doorways!!!!) A big shout out to the Profs – you were on fire. Also, I’d like to mention the orchestra glockenspiels; I’m beginning to ‘feel’ them almost as much as I already do the drums. What do I sound like? I’m such a lovey at times!!!!
Things to remember: - those of us on the stairs, sing ahead of the beat. Everyone, don’t forget your diction – word endings in particular!
NB The time is nigh when I’ll soon be on the prowl with my camera. Female chorus members, it’s the usual drill; I want lots of laughter and attitude. When it comes to posing, you’re all naturals!!!! Male chorus members, you’ve been neglected for far too long and I’m more than willing to address this imbalance! If you’ve got what it takes, let me know. (I’ve thrown down the gauntlet, who will dare to pick it up?!!!!!)
PS It would appear that I am not alone in my perplexity over where to sing what at any given time, with the appropriate actions. I echo my friend Colin’s observation in that we need a ‘movement’ walkthrough. Help!!!!
2 months ago
It has been full steam ahead at the Argyle this week…cast are in costume, the finishing touches are being made to the lights and set, there are people everywhere running around looking incredibly busy and there is a very exciting feeling in the air. I can’t believe that THE DRESS REHEARSAL IS TOMORROW! Time has most definitely flown.
We would love to have an audience to play with for the dress rehearsal, so we are opening up the doors of the argyle and letting people join us on our adventure for free!
All that we ask is that you email us at boxoffice@birminghamopera.org.uk to let us know you are coming along!
Hopefully see you there! (Do email us soon to avoid disappointment- we have a limited amount of tickets)
JN
2 months ago
16th March
The Insider
Hearing the wonderful sounds emanating from the orchestra – what can I say. The music was divine especially with that sexual drum/baseline undercurrent thing going on! I’m in love with the melodic symphony of notes and I get to revel in it for free (bonus!!!!)
Newsflash – I overheard one Actor tell another Actor to back off because he had found me first (to act with. Don’t even go there!!!!) Apparently, I’m rather huggable. Nice to know!!!
As Hugh and I (yes Hugh, I am naming and shaming) left the Green Room and were wending our way downstairs, Graham was approaching in the opposite direction. Graham tapped Hugh on the shoulder and said “Well done.” Hugh simultaneously puffed up like a balloon and displayed his peacock feathers as if he alone had carried the chorus, the Profs, the Actors and the orchestra all by himself and made the rehearsal a success by his mere presence. Needless to say, I corrected Hugh on this egotistical misconception all the way to his parked car. Ordinarily, I would not have brought this to anyone’s attention except that I was asked the rather pertinent question, ‘you’re going to blog about this, aren’t you’?
Well, now that you mention it……
MG
15th March
The Insider
I’m in a reflective mood right now. Why are we here? Why are we putting ourselves through the agony of an opera production when most of us have little or no opera experience outside of the Birmingham Opera Company? Is it to try something new? Is it to develop our singing/acting skills? Is it for the sheer love of all things operatic or is it simply to show off and be the centre of attention?!
I originally joined the Company because I was dared to!!!! Says it all really and yet I’m still here. Why would someone like me sing opera? Why indeed! I guess it’s the diversity. Different people from all over the place with different life experiences coming
together to share in this Life is a Dream project. We have spent so much time cheek by jowl (oh yeah, we’ve been that close!!!!) over the past few months and it will all be over in a few weeks. You’re good people and if I don’t get the opportunity to say ‘Goodbye’, I’m getting in first and saying it now!
Ok. That’s enough of that I think. Snivelling into one’s cup of hot Blackcurrant Squash is not the done thing!
Let’s mention the word ‘Greed’ shall we – one of the seven deadly sins if I’m not mistaken (watch the film Se7en (1995) with Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt if you don’t believe me!!!) I just want to point out that certain chorus members can be unscrupulous and if you’re not careful, you too will be taken in by their guile. Having exhausted their allotted opera tickets, these conscienceless chorus members are now on the scrounge for more! If these devious, underhand people approach you, make sure that you are properly recompensed first (a packet of the good biscuits / bar of chocolate should be the appropriate ‘payment’!!!!!)
For the first time, we, the chorus members, will be singing with the orchestra at tomorrow’s rehearsal. How this will pan out is anyone’s guess!!!!
MG
14th March
The Insider
Oh dear! This is what happens when I allow my photo to be put out there into the web-o-sphere – I have been recognised! People (namely chorus members) are running scared because they don’t know what I’ll be blogging about next. Ohhhhhhh………….
Anyone would think that I was close buddies with Gossip Girl (keep up people, it’s a television programme) but I’m much nicer. Honest!!!!!
We have now gone through the whole opera so we, kind of, have some idea of the shape and sound, entrances and exits and the bits backstage of how Life is a Dream is supposed to flow. That is, until the Creatives experience a tornado, forget everything that has gone before and start again from scratch! Me? Criticise the creative process? No way but I do believe it is my duty to do so on behalf of everyone else!
As I’m in a tell-‘em-off mode of thought, I might as well go for it. Chorus mentors – where are you? I have heard negative rumblings aimed at you so become more visible. (I’m sure day-glow yellow/orange clothing would look quite fetching!!!!) The other gripe that has come to my attention is the lengthy tea/coffee queue during rehearsal breaks. Why don’t you follow my example and bring your own refreshments? Admittedly, I am allergic to caffeine (so these queues have no impact on me) but think outside the box!
The highlight of the evening was the Basic Sex Lesson as explained by Graham to the female chorus. Interesting. The demonstration worked because on our next action replay, we all sexed it up to the max (rather too well in some instances!!!!) If you don’t know what I’m talking about, buy a ticket and come and see the show. Yes, this is what is known in the trade as a shameless Life is a Dream Birmingham Opera Company plug!!!!!!!
PS I’ve been asked how the running is going. Just fine, thanks. Early days
MG
2 months ago
Niall Crowley, a singer in our chorus, has just written a blog for the Independent. It’s cracking. Have a look here: http://blogs.independent.co.uk/2012/03/15/opera-for-the-masses-by-the-masses/
More musings from Marcia coming up later…
JN
