Carmen, mezzo-soprano
I have performed the role of Carmen in 33 productions and well over 100 performances. I return to Carmen because she is a challenge I will never “perfect.” She is epic in her ferocity and yet simultaneously charming and enchanting. Finding that mix — and in which moments to switch between them — and with new colleagues all around — is a puzzle of dramaturgy I am eager to explore again and again.
When I was 18 I had the most random collection of opera recordings you could imagine but one that managed to come my way was Maria Callas’s “Carmen.” This recording was everything to me. I had a theatre background as well as an instrumental background and the two were just starting to come together in my mind and I was in love.
There are so many true challenges in this role but the big thing is pacing for the rehearsal process. I do not give it all until performance time. Once the curtain comes up on a performance however, I save nothing. Playing her is like training for a marathon. The opera — like Carmen herself — is like catnip.
Dayton Opera artistic director
“Carmen” is a great entry point for the opera first-timer because it is truly a grand opera experience with a great story — and English surtitles so you always know what’s happening! It has great and recognizable music, beautiful dancing, great choruses and orchestra. It has it all!
“Carmen” is the “C” of the ABC’s of opera — “Aida,” “La Boheme” and “Carmen.” It’s that sure bet that people want to experience again and again. It’s also the “Signature Event” across the whole Dayton Performing Arts Alliance — The Dayton Ballet, Dayton Opera and Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra are all showcased wonderfully.
Stage director
“Carmen” is like being a kid in a candy shop with all the sweets laid out before me. I get to paint pictures on the stage with every color and texture possible in a musical atmosphere that truly embraces the passions and struggles of its characters. I find this fantastic confluence of elements to be the most exciting element of directing opera continued on