For Episode 9, the “Definitely Not Moribund” edition, we welcome back opera blogger and journalist John Gilks, as well as opera journalist Joseph So. Joining us for the first time is arts journalist Paula Citron. Gianmarco Segato, the COC’s Adult Programs Manager, is your host.
A recent article in the Globe and Mail about the phenomenon known as the “Compulsory Canadian Standing O” spurs on a lively chat (at 1:50). We also examine audience reactions to women singing male roles (a.k.a. “pants roles”) in the COC’s recent La clemenza di Tito (at 14:40).
We finish with our monthly list of favourite livestreams; short, comic, contemporary opera clips, and newly-released DVDs (at 29:30).
Are you out there listening? Let us know by sending us your ideas/comments on Facebook, Twitter or by e-mail (community@coc.ca).
Posted by Gianmarco Segato / in The Big COC Podcast / comments (0) / permalink
Recently, the National Post published two opposing opinion pieces regarding the relevance of opera today and, in particular, the Canadian Opera Company’s role in that discussion: one was published on February 22 by Terence Corcoran, and one by Robert Cushman which ran on March 1. We have truncated them both below with links to the full pieces for your perusal.
Keeping in mind that all opinions are important to us, we appreciate Mr. Cushman’s ability to articulate in print what we strive so hard to illustrate on stage – that the very nature of the performing arts is one of constant mutability, one that responds to an ever-changing cultural landscape and social environment, and one that is the result of the inevitability of interpretation.
A philosophy central to the Canadian Opera Company’s artistic mandate is not to simply accept the status quo, but to find meanings in these great works of art that haven’t been found before, and, by gathering together the world’s finest artists, we strive to contribute to a continuously evolving engagement with these profound explorations of the human condition.
Read more...
Posted by Danielle D'Ornellas / in Opera Appreciation / comments (1) / permalink
Winter may not be over quite yet, but the COC's Free Concert Series continues in March with some creative and interactive performances. From contemporary dance, to family-friendly opera and Portuguese-inspired Latin Jazz, our March concerts will help you make it to spring!
Tuesday, March 5, 2013 - Ballet Creole - Tounkande
Ballet Creole, one of Canada's most innovative and dynamic dance companies, extends the celebration of Black History Month into March with an exhilarating new production. Tounkande is a unique collaboration with master drummers from Africa and Trinidad and Tobago. The production brings together the song, dance and rhythms of Guinea, West Africa and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Malinke people. See a clip from Ballet Creole's production, Breaking Out, below.
Posted by Kristin McKinnon / in Free Concert Series / comments (0) / permalink
Sara Fulgoni in the COC production of Bluebeard's Castle. Photo: Michael Cooper © 2001