JOIN USLavish settings, fabulous music, ornate costumes - the world of opera is a trip to fantasy world. The 'Navrasa Duende Global Carnival' is bringing this art form to India, giving the audience a chance to watch performances from 'London Festival Opera', 'Dublin Philharmonic Orchestra', 'Flying Steps', Jinjo Crew, D'Intensity Breakers and more.
'London Festival Opera' has received critical acclaim for performances in many major theatres and festivals in the UK and overseas - from charity performances for The President of Malta to performing at a private soiree for The Spice Girls and covering venues like the La Fenice Opera House in Venice and Lee Shau Kee Grand Hall Hong Kong.
Philip Blake-Jones, artistic director and founder of 'London Festival Opera', explains to Rajitha Menon what goes on behind the scenes.
How does a typical opera production take place?
Producing a conventional opera performance is a complex procedure which involves high costs and meticulous management. In addition to the singers and musicians, a production also needs costumes and scenery, and sometimes dancers and non-singing actors. For a performance by London Festival Opera, accompaniment ranges from a solo pianist to a full orchestra.
What are the challenges involved in the process?
It is crucial to engage an experienced cast of the highest musical standards. During an actual performance, the dynamic between the performers and audience is essentially the same - whether in a large concert hall or in someone's home. Intimacy is key; even in a large venue the singers will come into the auditorium and serenade the audience during the performance.
Is opera an art for all?
Opera may be regarded a serious art, but it is highly entertaining too. Incredibly moving and emotional, and then fun and light-hearted, it reflects real life. Our aim always is to make a connection with the audience, whether they are seasoned opera lovers or newcomers.
Is it nerve-wracking to perform in front of royalty and global leaders?
It can be daunting performing for a VIP audience such as a member of the royal family or a world leader, but we are there to entertain them just like anyone else. For us, all members of the audience are VIPs! A particularly memorable occasion was performing for the former British Prime Minister, Sir John Major, at Chequers, his official country residence, where HRH The Prince of Wales was a guest of honour.
Some fan reactions that you cherish?
For me, the most gratifying response is when someone who has never been to an opera before comes up to me at the end of the performance and enthusiastically says 'I didn't know that I liked opera. Now I do!'
Thoughts about performing in India?
This is our first large-scale performance in India. I have experience the magic of India once before and am thrilled to be returning. For the 'Navrasa Duende Global Carnival', I have created a programme with arias and ensembles written by some of the greatest Western composers including Mozart, Rossini, Bizet, Verdi and Puccini.
What are you looking forward to during the performance?
I am looking forward to actually speaking to the audience and explaining the key elements of each aria or ensemble. I understand that for many in the audience this might be their first experience of live opera. If that is the case, I think they will be surprised at the power of the singer's voices. A singer trains his voice to be incredibly powerful and fill a large hall and carry above the instrumental ensemble.
What does a typical performance day look like?
After a good night's sleep, the cast will assemble in the morning or early afternoon at the venue for the crucial rehearsal to make sure the pieces are ready for the evening's performance. Meanwhile the wardrobe supervisor will be preparing the costumes and wigs. After a good meal (the artistes need to eat two hours before the performance to let their digestion settle), we will then change into costume, warm up our voices and gear up for the performance.