Through lecture, rehearsal, improvisational techniques, use of subtexts, body movement/awareness/alignment and other singer-actor performance techniques, this course is designed to cover many aspects of opera theater. The course includes working with the similarities and differences of stage, opera and musical theater styles, concentrating on musicianship, learning basic stage deportment/ etiquette and musical/historical acting styles and acting techniques including character development and analysis, use of subtext, and costume requirements. Various technical aspects of opera theater from stage managing, directing and producing an opera are covered, as well as how to become both an informed performer and a discerning audience member.

In addition to presenting original operas for children, we also study complete operas from the standard repertoire. This involves listening to, viewing, analyzing recordings of historical performances, video tapes and televised live performances and attending live opera performances.

Students will be asked to perform frequently in class throughout the year to demonstrate the incorporation of their new skills and performance techniques. Individuals who are ready will work with arias and study audition techniques. By audition, class members will be cast in RU Opera Ensemble performance programs in the fall and spring.

This fall, RU Opera Ensemble will perform The Emu's Tale, an opera for children, written for RU Opera Ensemble by composer-in-residence, Dr. Kathryn Garland Obenshain. On November 14, 2009 at 2pm, we will perform in the Covington Fine Arts Center auditorium on the RU campus; on November 11th and 12th we will tour four area elementary schools in the area.

In the spring, the Ensemble will perform scenes and arias from the standard and contemporary opera repertoire as well as a one-act comedy in the Covington Fine Arts Center auditorium on Sunday, April 11th at 2pm and Tuesday, April 13st at 8pm.

All students participate in some aspect of our public performances each semester. All participate in the creating of costumes, sets and props, as well as performing. In addition to rehearsing during regular class times, additional time will be scheduled for coachings and rehearsals as needed.

Opera Companies on the Web http://www.fsz.bme.hu/opera/companies.html
Other Opera Links http://www.fsz.bme.hu/opera/other.html

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