Starred and produced by soprano Elaine Lee, called as the "new star of Philippine Opera" (Malaya Newspaper) for her "clear articulation, unerring pitch and her smooth and fluid style" (Philippine Star), her aim is to bring opera to a broader audience. And she was a success with this project! Sharing the stage with her were Ivan Niccolo Nery (tenor), Lawrence Jatayna (baritone), and Dingdong Fiel (pianist).
February 7, 2015 was a night of true wonders! Let me enumerate the reasons as to why I say so: The audience came in relax clothing but still maintaining the respect a night of the opera deserves (1). The way staged was set was similar to a typical present stage play (2) - no big sets. The approach was a twist itself (3); two narrators were used using both English and Filipino as means to set the mood per act. The storyline was patterned after the asian novela craze that we have and still enjoy (4) - quick paced with high emotions, totally different from the standard opera that we have in mind. Lastly, audience interaction was used to make that connection real for the viewing public (5).
With the way the production was staged, I who is not that well versed with opera pieces (my knowledge is not that broad) was able to truly enjoy that night with ease! The story was straight forward. The narrators gave added humor by the means they describe each act; add the fact that they are using two familiar languages. Humor that was also seen on some of the stage pieces and heard on the spoken lines of the singers. The plot was simple - it was love that lead to tragedy but at the same time calls for forgiveness because of love. The performers were also "relax" on stage. No sense of formality that you would expect when we talk of opera.
With the creative hands of Vladimeir Gonzales (story writer) and Nazer Salcedo (director), the aim and dream of Elaine Lee was then translated and brought into a glorious reality. Having this said, the creative team of Gonzales-Salcedo is something to look at in the future for they have what it takes to give a classic a fresh new appeal.
This type of production is something that we need right now. It not only bridged that age old gap between opera and the audience but ensures that opera will not fade away in time. Let us face it, opera pieces are not easily understood and appreciated. This new approached has proven that opera can be made light without losing or changing its original musical arrangement.
Before I blab in circles, this production is true to its theme -LOVE! Love that knows forgiveness. Love that is innocent at times. Love that is true. For those who made this night possible, they have shown LOVE and have received LOVE in return.
Photos:
(All photos used were personally taken by me during the said performance night last February 7, 2015)
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| Elaine Lee (as the wife - Act 1) |
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| Lawrence Jatayna (Husband) and Elaine Lee (Wife) |
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| A touch of humor |
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| Iven Niccolo Nery (as the antagonist) |
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| Elaine Lee (As the Daughter) |
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