http://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laoperaen-usFri, 12 Mar 2010 21:59:25 GMTBehind the scenes interviews at the Los Angeles OperaLos Angeles Opera and Ron Geren for iPressroomwww.ipressroom.cominfo@ipressroom.comhttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/images/ctgr-2387.jpghttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laoperaBehind the Curtain at the LA Opera takes listeners behind the scenes of the Los Angeles Opera's 2006/2007 season which includes performances of Manon, including, Hansel and Gretel, L’Incoronazione di Poppea, Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny, Tannhäuser, The Merry Widow, Porgy and Bess, and Luisa Fernanda.Behind the Curtain at the LA Opera takes listeners behind the scenes of the Los Angeles Opera's 2006/2007 season which includes performances of Manon, including, Hansel and Gretel, L’Incoronazione di Poppea, Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny, Tannhäuser, The Merry Widow, Porgy and Bess, and Luisa Fernanda.LAoperaiPressroom.comnoLA OperaJames Conlon, LA Opera's Richard Seaver Music Director, talks to Brian Lauritzen about Franz Schreker's The Stigmatized (Die Gezeichneten), which receives its long overdue American premiere this season. "This is a man who wrote eight major operas, three of which were so successful in his time that they could be considered among the most successful operas written in the late teens and twenties, alongside Strauss. The work is not about the political context. It was written as an opera to be played and performed." nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2805Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:59:25 GMTLA OperaJames Conlon, LA Opera's Richard Seaver Music Director, speaks with Brian Lauritzen about the fourth and final chapter of the Ring cycle, Götterdämmerung. “From the first chord, you have an apocalyptic sense. You feel the end is impending from the very first note of the beginning of the prologue through the entire opera, the sense that somehow or other there is very little time left.”nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2804Fri, 12 Mar 2010 21:46:45 GMTLA OperaJames Conlon, LA Opera's Richard Seaver Music Director, talks to Brian Lauritzen about one of his favorite opera's Rossini's <em>bel canto</em> masterpiece The Barber of Seville. "I remember sitting in the front row with my friend watching this opera and from the moment the overture started being transported to another world and then feeling like I was, of course, laughing all night!"nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2250Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:28:42 GMTBejun Mehta talks to Brian Lauritzen about finding his voice as a countertenor and singing beside Plácido Domingo in Tamerlano. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2249Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:23:32 GMTLA OperaJames Conlon, LA Opera’s Richard Seaver Music Director, talks to Brian Lauritzen about Siegfried, exploring what makes it one of the most optimistic and ecstatic of all operas, and what exactly makes its hero “heroic.”James Conlon LA Opera Brian Lauritzen Siegfried operanohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2140Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:37:33 GMTLA OperaTenor John Treleaven talks to Brian Lauritzen about his return to LA Opera as Siegfried, considered by many to be the most difficult role in the operatic repertoire. Tenor John Treleaven Brian Lauritzen LA Opera nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2139Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:04:43 GMTLA OperaBrian Lauritzen speaks with soprano Nino Machaidze and tenor Giuseppe Filianoti, the stars of LA Opera’s Elixir of Love, about specializing in bel canto, the importance of good colleagues, and finding just the right touch for performing comedy.Nino Machaidze, Giuseppe Filianoti, Brian Lauritzen, The Elixir of Love, bel canto, LA Operanohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2089Tue, 08 Sep 2009 21:25:55 GMTLA OperaIn his fourth season as music director, James Conlon leads his first bel canto opera with LA Opera. The Elixir of Love is the first bel canto opera production for LA Opera in six years. Podcast host Brian Lauritzen talks to James Conlon about Donizetti’s The Elixir of Love, the intricacies involved in singing bel canto and why there is a current resurgence in the bel canto repertoire. James Conlon, Brian Lauritzen, The Elixir of Love, bel canto, LA Operanohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=15982&id=2080Wed, 02 Sep 2009 18:31:53 GMTLA OperaSoprano Elizabeth Futral returns to LA Opera for her passionate portrayal of Verdi’s Violetta in La Traviata. Listen as she discusses this role which she has performed in opera houses around the world. She shares how she has developed her voice to be one of the most versatile of her generation. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1723Mon, 08 Jun 2009 22:33:29 GMTLA Operanohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1631Wed, 13 May 2009 19:46:54 GMTLA Operanohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1557Fri, 10 Apr 2009 20:30:25 GMTLA OperaMusic Director James Conlon continues his exploration of long-forgotten masterpieces with Walter Braunfels' The Birds - a lush, late Romantic opera reminiscent of Strauss and Wagner. Listen while he discusses this incredible work and its importance to operatic repertoire. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1550Sat, 04 Apr 2009 00:53:54 GMTLA OperaPlacido Domingo is said to be "the world's greatest Siegmund" (The Associated Press). In this exclusive podcast, he shares with us why he picked Achim Freyer to create LA's first Ring and his recent triumphant debut in the 125th role of his career. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1548Fri, 03 Apr 2009 00:10:45 GMTLA OperaLinda Watson, one of the world's preeminent Wagnerian sopranos, sings the role of Brünnhilde in Die Walküre and in the subsequent Ring cycles. Listen while she describes the stamina needed to perform this role and what it means to be part of LA's first Ring. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1547Tue, 31 Mar 2009 21:57:53 GMTLA OperaGordon Hawkins plays Alberich in LA Opera's new production of Wagner's Das Rheingold. In this podcast, he discusses his journey from baseball to the opera stage, his vision for the character Alberich, and the staging challenges of this production. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1546Tue, 31 Mar 2009 21:57:50 GMTLA OperaDas Rheingold marks the highly anticipated opening installment of LA Opera's visionary production of Wagner's epic Ring cycle. James Conlon conducts. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1545Sat, 28 Feb 2009 22:57:46 GMTLA OperaMusic Director James Conlon conducts Mozart's enchanting opera, The Magic Flute. Listen while he discusses his approach to this work. This is his Mozart debut at LA Opera.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1544Sat, 21 Feb 2009 22:57:42 GMTLA OperaIn a recent article by the LA Times, Nathan Gunn (Papageno) and Joseph Kaiser (Tamino) were hailed as the "beefcakes" of opera. In this podcast, they discuss their LA Opera debuts, the attention they receive, and how The Magic Flute relates to Star Wars. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1543Fri, 09 Jan 2009 22:57:38 GMTLA Opera Emmanuel Villaume, Spoleto Festival USA’s Music Director for Opera and Orchestra, conducts Bizet’s passionate Carmen. This accomplished conductor discusses how the orchestra seamlessly transitions from one popular melody to anothernohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1343Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:18:58 GMTLA OperaViktoria Vizin was born to play Carmen. She has been hailed as a "ravishing Carmen" by the Chicago Tribune. Listen while she describes her obsession with this rolenohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1342Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:08:54 GMTnohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1252Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:18:11 GMTnohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1251Wed, 01 Oct 2008 18:18:09 GMTThe composer of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Howard Shore, takes his talent to the operatic stage. Shore has been a fan of opera since the early 1970s. He was excited to have the opportunity to compose his first opera with the high caliber of artists involved in The Fly.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1191Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:17:22 GMTDaniel Okulitch creates this operatic role for the first time. He enjoys the thrill of being the first to tackle the role and is inspired by the direction of Plácido Domingo and David Cronenberg.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1192Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:17:18 GMTPlácido Domingo comments on Howard Shore’s commitment to this project and how his passion inspired the creative team. Domingo expresses his excitement to bring this commissioned work to the Los Angeles audience.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1193Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:17:16 GMTDavid Cronenberg brings his classic 1986 film to the operatic stage for the first time. With roots in the 1958 version of The Fly, Cronenberg discusses man’s relationship with technology.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1194Fri, 05 Sep 2008 22:17:15 GMTThis renowned opera director and singers shares with us what it’s like to work with film director Woody Allen who directors this production of Gianni Schicchi. Sir Thomas Allen’s shares why he believes Il Trittico is one of Puccini’s finest works.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1185Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:53:34 GMTSondra Radvanovsky knew that she wanted to be an opera singer from the age of 11 when she saw Plácido Domingo performing in Tosca on T.V. Now she returns to LA Opera to sing her role debut as the tortured nun, Sister Angelica.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1186Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:53:27 GMTThis Sicilian tenor shares his thoughts on his complex character in Il Tabarro and how he “fell” into opera.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1187Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:53:24 GMTMark Delavan and Anja Kampe discuss their role debuts in Il Tabarro, the first of three one-act operas in Puccini’s Il Trittico.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1188Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:53:21 GMTOscar®-winning director William Friedkin of The French Connection, The Exorcist, and To Live and Die in L.A. returns to LA Opera to direct Il Tabarro and Suor Angelica. He discusses why he pays such attention to detail and why he is fascinated with opera.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1183Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:53:18 GMTMusic Director James Conlon starts the 2008/09 Season with one of his favorite works from Puccini. He has made a commitment to LA Opera unlike any other Music Director. He will conduct six of the nine productions this season on top of doing free concerts for the community.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=10118&id=1184Thu, 04 Sep 2008 23:53:14 GMTMaestro James Conlon’s Wagner conducting is world-renowned. He shares his insight into this heart-breaking love story. He is interviewed by Michael Hackett.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=975Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:48 GMTPaul Floyd's energy and passion for opera is contagious. You will not only learn about Tosca, you will be inspired by his lecture from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=978Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:41 GMTMusic Director James Conlon is interviewed by Michael Hackett about his passionate Recovered Voices project which includes Ullmann’s The Broken Jug and Zemlinky’s The Dwarf.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=977Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:35 GMTMusic Director James Conlon and Alan Chapman from KUSC discuss Verdi’s tragic opera, Otello. This production stars Ian Storey and Cristina Gallardo-Domâs.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=976Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:28 GMTListen to Michael Walsh and learn about La Rondine from the comfort of your own home. Recorded from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, this lecture unearths the treasures of this rarely performed Puccini opera.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=979Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:19 GMTDuff Murphy’s Pre-Performance Lecture will make you fall in love with Puccini’s La Bohème all over again.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=974Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:12 GMTInterviewed by KUSC’s Duff Murphy, Music Director James Conlon discusses Janáèek’s masterpiece Jenùfa staring Karita Mattila.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=972Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:46:03 GMTListen to the Pre-Opera talk online. Kimberlea Daggy interviews Music Director James Conlon about his views on Beethoven’s only opera.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=971Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:45:55 GMTAlan Chapman from KUSC describes Mozart’s seductive Don Giovanni. He unfolds the mystery behind opera’s favorite playboy performed by Erwin Schrott.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=973Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:45:48 GMTPatricia Racette makes her role debut as Magda at the LA Opera. Listen while she describes her start as a jazz singer and her transition to an opera star. She talks about the thrill of performing with Plácido Domingo during his 40th Anniversary Concert.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=927Fri, 06 Jun 2008 23:56:23 GMTKeri-Lynn Wilson makes her LA Opera debut. This Canadian’s internationally acclaimed career has seen her conduct in many of the world’s most renowned venues. Listen to this Puccini expert describe this rarely performed work.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=925Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:30:57 GMTMarcus Haddock, a Texas native, describes the differences between performing in Europe and in America. He reminisces about singing this role at LA Opera eight years ago and performing with his dear friend, Patricia Racette.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=926Fri, 06 Jun 2008 15:30:54 GMTLA OperaThe last time Neil Shicoff performed on the LA Opera stage it was in the same role 19 years ago. Since then, he has established himself as a preeminent American tenor of his generation. Listen as he speaks about his return to LA Opera, this role, and his special connection to Music Director James Conlon.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=910Thu, 15 May 2008 19:20:31 GMTLA OperaAdrianne Pieczonka last performed at LA Opera for this season’s opening gala performance of the Verdi’s Requiem. She returns for her role debut as Tosca. She describes this monumental moment in her career and why she chose LA Opera to make such an important step. She talks about her approach to Tosca and how she tackles the role’s most poignant passages.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=909Thu, 15 May 2008 19:20:28 GMTLA OperaListen while Music Director James Conlon explains why he feels “no greater Italian masterwork exists” than Otello. He discusses the impact that this opera had on classical music and why Verdi is the perfect Shakespearian composer. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=721Sat, 16 Feb 2008 00:18:03 GMTLA OperaIan Storey (Otello) shares his transformation from a furniture designer to an opera singer. He speaks to the vocal and dramatic challenges a tenor experiences singing the role of Otello. He discussed the degradation of Otello and his heart-breaking decision to kill the woman he loves. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=720Fri, 15 Feb 2008 23:44:29 GMTLA OperaRodrick Dixon (The Dwarf) and Mary Dunleavy (Infanta) discuss LA Opera's Recovered Voices project and what it means to be part of this initiative. They encourage audiences to experience for the first time this music that was formerly suppressed by the Nazi’s. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=713Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:31:31 GMTLA OperaMaestro Conlon shares his vision for the future of this music and why he feels it should be played in every concert hall around the world. He illustrates the moment he first heard Alexander Zemlinsky's music and the effect it had on his life. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=714Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:31:28 GMTDavid Hockney started his relationship with Wagner's music over twenty years ago with a choreographed drive up the California coast. Each turn had a musical accent and his car's speed matched the crescendos and decrescendos. The union between the California sun and the passion of Wagner's music translated magically into the set design and lighting of LA Opera’s production of Tristan und Isolde.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=706Wed, 06 Feb 2008 23:13:36 GMTDavid Hockney started his relationship with Wagner's music over twenty years ago with a choreographed drive up the California coast. Each turn had a musical accent and his car's speed matched the crescendos and decrescendos. The union between the California sun and the passion of Wagner's music translated magically into the set design and lighting of LA Opera’s production of Tristan und Isolde.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=707Wed, 06 Feb 2008 23:13:36 GMTLA OperaListen while Music Director James Conlon guides you through the musical tapestry of Tristan und Isolde. He offers insight into Wagner's use of musical leitmotifs to develop characters and advance the plot.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=684Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:51:12 GMTLA OperaLinda Watson (Isolde) and John Treleaven (Tristan) discuss the intense discipline it takes to be among the top Wagnerian singers in the world. They talk about this iconic production by renowned artist David Hockney and their excitement to be included in the cast of LA Opera's original Ring cycle designed by Achim Freyer.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=680Sat, 19 Jan 2008 00:20:31 GMTLA OperaBass Erwin Schrott shares his feelings on the role of Don Giovanni, a role he is scheduled to play until 2012. He explains how he reached this point in his career and how he captures the passion, color, and energy of this extraordinary character. He expresses his love for Mozart and how that affects his performance.Bass Erwin Schrott shares his feelings on the role of Don Giovanni, a role he is scheduled to play until 2012.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=624Wed, 21 Nov 2007 22:00:32 GMTArturo Chácon Cruz (Rodolfo) and Maija Kovalevska (Mimi) engage in a conversation about the road that lead to them staring in La Bohème at the LA Opera. They recall their Operalia wins and the influence of Plácido Domingo in their lives. The young opera stars discuss the romantic cinematic production from film director Herbert Ross.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=617Wed, 21 Nov 2007 17:39:28 GMTBehind the Curtain PodcastMusic Director James Conlon discusses how Leoš Janácek stands out as a composer who has his own voices and how this relates to Jenufa. He also talks about the LA Opera production of this powerful Czech masterpiece and how this tragic story is in fact very uplifting. He also shares with us how he works with the chorus and orchestra at the start of his second season with LA Opera.Music Director James Conlon discusses how Leoš Janácek stands out as a composer who has his own voices and how this relates to Jenufa.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=571Tue, 02 Oct 2007 20:38:37 GMTBehind the Curtain PodcastNewly appointed Associate Conductor/Chorus Master, Grant Gershon, shares with us how he prepares the chorus for each production and his excitement about returning to LA Opera. He comments on LA Opera’s opening weekend which includes Verdi’s Requiem and Beethoven’s Fidelio. He discusses his favorite moments in these pieces and his passion for conducting.Newly appointed Associate Conductor/Chorus Master, Grant Gershon, share with us how he prepares the chorus for each production and his excitement about returning to LA Opera.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=551Fri, 07 Sep 2007 19:00:43 GMTLA OperaThe internationally acclaimed stars of Beethoven’s Fidelio, Anja Kampe and Klaus Florian Vogt, discuss their LA Opera debuts and the passion it takes to portray two separated lovers. Anja Kampe (Leonore) talks about her role and the strength of Fidelio’s heroine while Klaus Florian Vogt (Florestan) speaks to the instrumental influences and challenges in singing Beethoven’s only opera.The internationally acclaimed stars of Beethoven’s Fidelio, Anja Kampe and Klaus Florian Vogt, discuss their LA Opera debuts and the passion it takes to portray two separated lovers.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5366&id=491Fri, 31 Aug 2007 22:29:01 GMTLA OperaDirector Emilio Sagi discusses LA Opera’s upcoming production of Luisa Fernanda. Mr. Sagi talks about the Spanish zarzuela genre and the work’s passionate storyline. He also describes his directorial background and explains why Luisa Fernanda holds such a special place in his own heart.Director Emilio Sagi discusses LA Opera’s upcoming production of Luisa Fernanda. Mr. Sagi talks about the Spanish zarzuela genre. He also explains why Luisa Fernanda holds such a special place in his own heart.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=380Wed, 30 May 2007 00:01:11 GMTLA OperaAward-winning director Francesca Zambello discusses LA Opera’s Porgy and Bess. Ms. Zambello describes her background, her directing process and the concept behind this thrilling new production. She also talks about the universal story and the unforgettable music found within the classic American treasure.Award-winning director Francesca Zambello discusses LA Opera’s Porgy and Bess. Ms. Zambello describes her background, her directing process and the concept behind this thrilling new production.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=370Thu, 03 May 2007 17:52:38 GMTLA OperaInternational opera stars Susan Graham and Rod Gilfry discuss LA Opera’s The Merry Widow. Ms. Graham and Mr. Gilfry describe the elegant waltzes, timeless melodies and laugh-out-loud humor of this light-hearted classic. They also explain the operetta art form and talk about the versatility and ‘endurance’ that today’s opera singers must embody. International opera stars Susan Graham and Rod Gilfry discuss LA Opera’s The Merry Widow. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=365Thu, 26 Apr 2007 21:44:19 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comBass-baritone Kevin Short discusses his leading role as Porgy in LA Opera’s Porgy and Bess. Mr. Short describes his background and how he’s preparing for the upcoming production. He also touches on the controversial nature of the work and why he believes Porgy and Bess is ‘the great American opera’.Kevin Short discusses his role as Porgy in LA Opera’s Porgy and Bess. Mr. Short describes his background and how he’s preparing for the upcoming production.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=362Fri, 20 Apr 2007 20:50:22 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comAcclaimed international opera director Lotfi Mansouri discusses his elegant and witty production of Franz Lehárs classic operetta, The Merry Widow. Mr. Mansouri also describes his original journey from Iran to Los Angeles, where he discovered an unexpected passion for opera, and explains what continues to drive him more than 40 years after making his directorial debut.Acclaimed international opera director Lotfi Mansouri discusses his elegant and witty production of Franz Lehárs classic operetta, The Merry Widow.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=353Mon, 09 Apr 2007 17:09:55 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comDirector Ian Judge discusses LA Opera’s company premiere of Richard Wagner’s most voluptuous opera, Tannhauser. With only a week to go before opening night, Mr. Judge explains the challenges of putting together such a monumental work. He also vividly describes how he mirrors the opera’s musical eroticism on stage in his daring new production.Director Ian Judge discusses LA Opera’s company premiere of Richard Wagner’s opera, Tannhauser. He explains the challenges of directing such a monumental work. He also vividly describes how he mirrors the opera’s musical eroticism on stage.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=329Fri, 16 Feb 2007 12:59:29 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comTony Award-winning legend Patti LuPone and LA Opera Music Director James Conlon reminisce about their days together at The Juilliard School and describe what it's like working together again in LA Opera's Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny. Ms. LuPone and Mr. Conlon also share fascinating discussions on agitrop (political) theater and 'cross-over' entertainment.Tony Award-winning legend Patti LuPone and LA Opera Music Director James Conlon reminisce about their days together at The Juilliard School and describe what it's like working together again in LA Opera's Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=328Thu, 08 Feb 2007 14:50:22 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comWith only two weeks before opening night, 2006 Tony Award-winning Director John Doyle describes the direction and concept of his production of Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht’s Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny. Mr. Doyle talks about the sex appeal and accessibility of the work and also explains what the experience has been like preparing for his LA Opera debut.A Tony Award-winning Director John Doyle discusses his production of Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht’s Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny. Mr. Doyle also talks about the experience of preparing for his LA Opera debut. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=324Wed, 31 Jan 2007 23:56:14 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comFour-time Tony Award-winner Audra McDonald stars in LA Opera’s risqué new production of Kurt Weill and Bertolt Brecht’s Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny. From a rehearsal room at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Ms. McDonald talks about making her LA Opera debut and also discusses her approach to building the character of Jenny, a tart-with-a-heart in an “Old West Boomtown.” Four-time Tony Award-winner Audra McDonald talks about making her LA Opera debut, as well as her transition to the new genre. She also reveals what she did to prepare for the character she will be portraying. nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=311Fri, 26 Jan 2007 01:34:02 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comInternationally acclaimed Mezzo-soprano, Susan Graham makes her LA Opera stage debut as Poppea in Monteverdi's The Coronation of Poppea (L'incoronazione di Poppea). Ms. Graham previews the Company Premiere, discusses her leading role, and describes the ancient Roman setting and culture of this Baroque masterpiece.Internationally acclaimed Mezzo-soprano, Susan Graham makes her LA Opera stage debut as Poppea in Monteverdi's The Coronation of Poppea (L'incoronazione di Poppea).nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=219Thu, 23 Nov 2006 00:11:00 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comDirector/designer Douglas Fitch will make his LA Opera debut with the Company's new production of Hansel and Gretel (November/December 2006). In 2005, Douglas Fitch made his Santa Fe Opera debut with the direction and scenic design of Turandot. The American artist, director, and designer’s most recent projects include a visual atmosphere using lights, projections, smoke and mirrors for a performance of the Sea Interludes from Peter Grimes at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland. He also staged a production of Through Roses by Marc Neikrug for the New World Symphony and created a production of Swan Lake performed at Wolf Trap with the National Symphony. In previous seasons he designed and directed L’Enfant et les sortileges for the National Symphony at the Kennedy Center and Das Rheingold for the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra. His one- man show, Amagamations, was seen at the Material ConneXion in New York and he designed five orphic art exhibitions with collaborator Mimi Oka in Japan and New York. He also served as creative director for Readia, a company established to develop high- tech educational products and he taught 3-D design at the Parsons School of Design. Other recent projects include Art fur Artze, an exhibition of drawings at MultiArt, Bonn, Germany and Orphic Fodder, a book in collaboration with Ms. Oka documenting a series of events and installations focusing on food as experience in the context of contemporary art. In addition, Mr. Fitch directed and designed a production of Stravinsky’s L’Histoire du soldat for the Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival and created a one-man show, Organs of Emotion, in Bonn, Germany. Mr. Fitch graduated from Harvard with a degree in visual studies and attended the School of Architecture in Strasbourg and La Varenne School of Cooking in Paris. His early projects include collaborations with Peter Sellars and Jim Henson.Celebrated Artist Douglas Fitch discusses his role as Director and Designer of the upcoming Los Angeles Opera production, Hansel and Gretel. Fitch shares his vision for a playful and unconventional new setting of Engelbert Humperdinck’s beloved classic.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=218Thu, 16 Nov 2006 19:48:10 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comDirector/choreographer Vincent Paterson and vocal director Denise Massé discuss the upcoming LA Opera production of Manon, their collaboration and what it takes to prepare vocally for a production of this complexity.Director/choreographer Vincent Paterson and vocal director Denise Massé discuss the upcoming LA Opera production of Manon, their collaboration and what it takes to prepare vocally for a production of this complexity.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=190Thu, 05 Oct 2006 22:15:22 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comDirector/choreographer Vincent Paterson and Tony award winner Susan Hilferty discuss the upcoming LA Opera production of Manon. Paterson discusses the final touches ahead for him during the final week of rehearsals. Tony Award winning Costume Designer Susan Hilferty reveals the many different looks the title character undergoes during the performance, and the monumental task of creating and coordinating the hundreds of lavish outfits worn on stage.Director/choreographer Vincent Paterson and Tony Award winning Costume Designer Susan Hilferty discuss their work in building on-stage personas for the LA Opera production of Manon.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=188Thu, 28 Sep 2006 19:20:37 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comDirector/choreographer Vincent Paterson and tenor Rolando Villazón discuss the upcoming Los Angeles Opera production of Manon. Paterson shares his impressions as rehearsals with the cast and crew begin for his operatic directorial debut. Villazón reveals what he does to prepare for the characters he portrays on stage and discusses what steps he still has left for this particular role. Director/choreographer Vincent Paterson and tenor Rolando Villazón discuss their experiences as rehearsals begin for the Los Angeles Opera production of Manon.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=186Fri, 22 Sep 2006 19:30:42 GMTRon Geren for Behindthecurtainpodcast.comDirector/choreographer Vincent Paterson and soprano Anna Netrebko discuss their upcoming collaboration on the LA Opera's production of Manon. Paterson discusses the path his career has taken from pop choreographer to the helm of the highly anticipated Manon for the LA Opera and reveals the direction of the production. Anna Netrebko discusses her prior work with Paterson and how the two first met.Director/choreographer Vincent Paterson and soprano Anna Netrebko discuss their upcoming collaboration on the LA Opera's production of Manon.nohttp://behindthecurtainpodcast.com/pr/laopera/podcast-post.aspx?c=5339&id=183Wed, 13 Sep 2006 22:54:01 GMT