DragonDiva Operatic Theatre

Singer Spotlight: Rachel Stewart

2011-08-26T09:24:00.001-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Rachel Stewart

Name: Rachel Stewart

Voice Type: Soprano

Role: Josephine

Hometown: Abbotsford

Is this your first time performing with DD?

This is my second time. Last year I played Naomi, one of the stepsisters in Cendrillon.

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

Josephine has a personality. She has actual human conflicts and dilemmas. She wants to follow her heart, but she wants to please her father. Also, she has more high notes than some of the other G&S roles I’ve played ;)

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

The Simpsons’ Sideshow Bob of course, from his one-man show of H.M.S. Pinafore, performed as Bart’s ‘last request’..

Favorite part of this opera?

It changes all the time. We just staged the trio “Never mind the why or wherefore”, and I think this is now my favourite part to do. I get to dance and act just a tad sloshed.

What are your rituals before a performance?

I like to run through any spoken dialogue or any tricky lyrics in my head a few times, stretch, take a walk if possible. Hang out by myself for a bit. Also, I am pretty picky about what I will or won’t eat in the day or hours leading up to a performance.

What is your favourite opera?

That’s a hard one… I don’t know that I really have a favourite opera. Favourite arias and PARTS of operas perhaps. At the moment, if I had to choose I would say either La Boheme or La Traviata.

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage?

I don’t know that I’ve been asked to do anything super strange. Some things were strange in the moment, or perhaps a little awkward at first, but not really strange compared to some things I have seen or heard of other singers/actors being asked to do.

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage?

I was supposed to shuffle cards during the ‘card trio’ in Carmen. I Tried. I practiced. But, to this day, I still can not shuffle cards without flinging them haphazardly.

Favourite role you've ever played?

Probably Adele from Die Fledermaus.

(NOTE: She was a fantastic Adele... I happen to have been conducting that performance)

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically?

Probably reading. Or hanging out with animals. Both at the same time is great.

Coffee or Tea?

I am english. I drink a lot of tea. I even wrote an essay about tea in English 101… I do drink coffee when I am out though.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

I can say things backwards. Words. Short sentences etc. I saw someone do this on Ellen once… she totally stole that talent from me…

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you?

A dilemma that I have actually put waaay too much thought into at various times. What constitutes a luxury item? What about a luxury yacht? Can I have a magical book that turns into a new novel every time I reach the end? A camera with a never ending battery supply and memory would be wonderful.

Tell us a joke.

I would, but it doesn’t work unless I do the bad scottish accent.

Any upcoming performances you want to share?

I will be playing the role of Adina in Donizetti’s L’eslisir d’amore this November with Vancouver Island Opera.

(NOTE: I happen to be conducting that performance as well, in fact three of our singers, Rachel Stewart, Harout Markarian, and Jason Cook will all take lead roles in the Vancouver Island Opera production of L'Elisir D'Amore. It's a fully staged opera with a wonderful professional orchestra to back up these singers!)

Rachel is a beautiful Josephine, great singer, great character, and the fact that she's British is icing on the cake! Come see this wonderful performer - only three performances left!

Singer Spotlight: Nickolas Meyer

2011-08-23T23:59:00.000-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Nickolas Meyer

Name: Nickolas Meyer

Voice Type: Bass

Role: Carpenter/Boatswain

Hometown: Courtenay, BC

Is this your first time performing with DD?

Yes!!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

Getting to experiment & play with different characters that a bass normally wouldn’t do.

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

I definitely have multiple personalities in this show. My obvious inspiration comes from Bubbles (Trailer Park Boys), Blanche Devereaux (Golden Girls), Lorraine (Mad TV, and Patsy & Eddie (Absolutely Fabulous)

Favourite part of this opera?

Being with my Lass, Miss Lady Pasty aka Carolyn Barker.

What are your rituals before a performance?

Not much, just watching what I eat and drink that day. Avoiding anything super flem inducing or full of caffeine.

What is your favourite opera?

Anything with a great Bass role!

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage?

Ummm wear coke bottle glasses and expect to dance! To see if I am successful, come see the show ;)

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage?

Having to do an extremely choreographed dance routine in West Side Story.

Favourite role you've ever played?

The more I get to explore and develop the character, the more I enjoy playing Sarastro (The Magic Flute)

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically?

I love photography, cooking (NOT baking) & spin class!

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you?

I do! I am a waiter

Coffee or Tea?

Both and ALL. I love anything coffee and every type of tea.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

I am pretty handy with my tools! I’ve had to fix our washer twice and the garbage disposal three times!

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you?

Fishing Rod, Scissors, and my partner Riley. Pretty sure I would only need those three things to live a happy life in the middle of nowhere

Tell us a joke.

I don’t know any so I googled one and laughed the hardest at this one …

Q: What is the difference between a Wagnerian soprano and an All-Pro offensive lineman?
A: Stage makeup.

Any upcoming performances you want to share?

I have an exciting engagement with City Opera Vancouver and will be returning to UBC Opera this Fall. Stay tuned @ www.nickolasmeyer.com for more details!!

Nickolas is a VERY talented young bass - a fantastic singer and a very very funny man. Don't miss your chance to see Nickolas in action - just four performances left!

Singer Spotlight: Kayla Matzen

2011-08-19T07:15:00.001-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Kayla Matzen

Here at DragonDiva Operatic Theatre, we have ensemble members that are absolutely of soloist quality. Kayla Matzen is one such talented individual!

Name: Kayla Matzen

Voice Type: soprano

Role: Sir Jospeh Porter's cousin (certainly NOT an Aunt!)

Hometown: Williams Lake

Is this your first time performing with DD?

No, I was lucky enough to sing “Celia” in the 2009 “Iolanthe” with Dragon Diva

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

I Love the costume!! Dora Brooks is a genius!

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

Well… I think from Katy Perry’s “I kissed a girl”… I’ll leave it at that…

Favourite part of this opera?

The Ladies entrance! Any entrance involving balloons HAS to be my favourite!

What are your rituals before a performance?

Light dinner, warm water, and a dance party with Caroline Barker!

What is your favourite opera?

Anything Puccini, every time I want to have a good cry I’ll put it on.

Have you ever been asked to do something strange onstage?

Besides falling on my face every night? Nope.

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage?

Dancing a version of “swan lake” while singing like a ‘dainty fairy’… Thanks Johanna Goosen!

Favourite role you've ever played?

Elsie in “Yeoman of the Guard”, Not the typical Gilbert and Sullivan ingénue, and the role is just lovely to sing!

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing
classically?

Knitting! At least right now, it changes al the time. Next week it might be sewing!

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you?

Not yet… hopefully once I finish my BEd in June I will be a Elementary teacher

Coffee or Tea?

Tea! You don’t want to see me on coffee!

Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

Secret? Probably not, but if you want me to make anything crafty I will make it! Or at least give it my best shot!

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope
you have with you?

My unlimited juiced IPod, my lulu lemon sweater, a library of books.

Tell us a joke.

Why is the tomato red? Because it saw the “salad dressing!”

Any upcoming performances you want to share?

Sadly, this is the last show for me as I finish my degree, but I couldn't imagine going out with a more fun show!

Don't miss the chance for Kayla to make you laugh out loud in HMS Pinafore. Opening night is tonight!

John Arsenault, Music Director/Production Manager

Singer Spotlight: Jennifer McLaren

2011-08-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Jenny McLaren

Name: Jennifer McLaren

Voice Type: Mezzo-soprano

Role: Buttercup

Hometown: Richmond, BC (originally from Calgary, Alberta)

Is this your first time performing with DD?

It is – DragonDiva has long been on my radar as a company I’ve wanted to work with, but it’s often difficult to fit productions into my current schedule, so things had to wait for a while. I’m THRILLED to have the opportunity now!

(NOTE: We are glad she did. Jenny learned her role in about 2 weeks, and is exceedingly good!)

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

This is a “full-circle” experience for me; my very first stage performance ever was as Buttercup in an elementary-school version of Pinafore when I was 10. The experience brought me from being a shy kid to being absolutely certain that I wanted to pursue the performing arts as a career. To now take on the full role as a more seasoned performer is just really cool. (I’m shocked by what I remember – and how different this Buttercup is from the 10-year-old version!)

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

Ah, Buttercup. She’s quite the cougar... I mentioned to Riley McMitchell in rehearsal the other day that I saw my version of Buttercup as being a slightly more no-nonsense version of Betty White (but with all the requisite sweetness-slash-dirtiness) by day, and who held tarot readings, read gothic novels, and taught striptease-dancing classes by night. Riley said, “So…equal parts Betty White and Bettie Page, then?” I said, “Exactly!! And maybe a smidge of Betty Ford in there, too…”

Favourite part of this opera?

Whenever Nick Meyer tiptoes and sings the line “at half past ten”, I giggle uncontrollably. And anything and everything our fabulous Dick Deadeyes do just cracks me up. Favorite aria: Josephine’s ‘The Hours Creep on Apace”.

What are your rituals before a performance?

It depends on the day and the particular demands of the performance. As I’ve grown as a performer, vocal care’s become really important for me. Depending on where I feel my instrument’s at, it can range anywhere from a light warm-up to hauling out the vocal steamer, really watching what I eat, moderating the amount of other activity that day, etc. That’s the thing about vocal musicians – we’re products of our environment, so we have to be in tune with ourselves.

And I’m a pacer. I always pace before the first few shows. I have too much pent-up energy to sit down!

What is your favourite opera?

I have a soft spot for early opera (Monteverdi, Purcell, etc.) and French opera (Debussy, Bizet). Offenbach, John Gay, and Edward German write great operettas (in addition to Gilbert & Sullivan, of course). And I love contemporary opera – it’s always great to see new Canadian works being developed.

Have you ever been asked to do something strange onstage?

I’ve done a fair bit of non-musical theatre, and they’re the productions where crazy things seem to happen. I acted opposite a fully naked man for the first 10 minutes and last 5 minutes of a production once…I was a chain-smoking former prostitute in another play…and I think quite possibly, the craziest thing was a piece of movement theatre where I was dressed up in a “king’s” costume made out of leather, tiled orange pieces which resembled the stuff they make yoga mats out of, and a layer of thick plastic lamination. Totally unbreathable and unmovable. I had to dance, crawl around, hang upside down off a chair, and scream like a crazy person while wearing this. Did I mention it was strangely fun??

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage?

I memorized a play which was essentially a monologue over an hour long. Tricky, but rewarding! Plus, finding the balance in crying scenes is difficult – being connected enough to be able to go there emotionally, but not completely break down in the process. The Laramie Project was an emotional doozy for me: fulfilling as a performer, but so heartbreaking.

Favourite role you've ever played?

Favourite musical role: Dido in Dido and Aeneas. Favourite non-musical role: Martha in Anatomy Lesson.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically?

Um…I like to watch Food Network (and drool over the recipes)…and watch my husband’s rock band (Incura) play!

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you?

I honestly don’t know if they could be considered as such! I’m heading into my sixth season as a professional chorister with the Vancouver Chamber Choir. I adore my choir and am so privileged to be working with such amazingly talented singers. We rehearse in the mornings; in the afternoons, I teach private music and group music lessons in Vancouver and White Rock. I count myself extremely lucky to be working full-time as a musician, and often have to pinch myself!!

(NOTE: See Jenny's website HERE)

Coffee or Tea?

Tea. Coffee makes me woozy. A high school friend of mine bet me that I couldn’t make it through the International Baccalaureate Program without getting hooked on coffee. I won.
Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

I play accordion! It was my first instrument (I started lessons at age 5). It still makes appearances at cabarets rather frequently. I can also talk like Alvin and the Chipmunks…

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you?

My hubby Jim, the entire Vancouver Chamber Choir, and Audra McDonald. I suppose that means I wouldn’t be deserted, then…

(NOTE: Jenny and I share a passion here. Audra McDonald, in my opinion, is one of the best singers of our time. Check her out HERE.)

Tell us a joke.

I’m not funny. ;)

(NOTE: NOT true!)

Any upcoming performances you want to share?

Yes! I’m singing with some phenomenal musical theatre performers in “An Elegant Legacy” at the new Orpheum Annex on September 24^th, celebrating the lyrics of Gus Kahn and E.Y. Harburg (tix: lande@telus.net). And the Vancouver Chamber Choir’s 10-concert season is kicking off a week after that with “The English Touch: Byrd to Britten” at Ryerson Church on September 30^th (www.vancouverchamberchoir.com has all the season details). I’m also in an Andrews Sisters-inspired quartet, The K Sisters – we perform all over the place!

We are delighted that Jenny has agreed to be part of our production of HMS Pinafore. Don't miss your chance to see this wonderful and vibrant performer in action!

John Arsenault, Music Director/Production Manager

Singer Spotlight: Riley McMitchell

2011-08-14T21:48:00.000-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Riley McMitchell

Name: Riley McMitchell

Voice Type: baritone

Role: Captain Corcoran

Hometown: Port Coquitlam, B.C

Is this your first time performing with DD?

No, I sang Strephon (half man/half fairy) in Iolanthe a few years ago. When you do a Dragondiva show you know two things: it will be great and it will be a whole lot of fun!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

I would definitely say my costume (I love my hat!) and the awesome cast I get to work with this year.

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

William Shatner in Star Trek and Stewie in Family Guy (the episode where he sings all the songs from Pinafore)

Favourite part of this opera?

Definitely the opening of Act 2! I have an aria where I get to smoke a hookah …… I never thought I would be doing that on stage.

What are your rituals before a performance?

I take it pretty easy that day, go over my music and my lines, warm up my body and voice… and most importantly, I drink a big can of sugar free redbull.

What is your favourite opera?

My favourite to sing would be Valentin in Faust or Figaro in Barber of Seville. My favourite to watch would be La Traviata or anything by Massenet.

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage?

I sang a concert of excerpts from a book where all the famous people buried in a cemetery in Paris were reincarnated as cats. I played Jim Morrison the cat. I was covered in cat fur, wore leather pants and sang ‘Voyage a Paris’ by Poulenc…… figure that one out!

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage?

I don’t know if it is difficult but I sang Bob in the Old Maid and the Thief and had to strip down to soaking wet boxer shorts on stage. I was much younger and shyer then so it was hard for me to get comfortable doing that.

Favourite role you've ever played?

I would have to say Papageno in The Magic Flute… I hated it at first but spent a lot of time with the character so I became quite comfortable in it. If I ever had to roll out of bed directly onto stage to sing a roll, it would be him.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically?

I love running and going to the gym… oh, and reading vampire novels!

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you?

Yeah, I’m an elementary school teacher. I teach both music and general classroom. It’s a really fun job and I get a lot of character inspiration from some of the crazy characters I have in my class each year.

Coffee or Tea?

Coffee and lots of it!!!!!
Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

Uh, I used to juggle and I spent a big chunk of time as a kid competing and riding horses.

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you?

I would like a piano with a bench full of assorted music, a life time supply of sunscreen and my partner, Nick.

Tell us a joke.

Q: How many tenors does it take to change a light bulb?
A: Six. One to do it, and five to say, "It's too high for him."

Any upcoming performances you want to share?

I’ve been sworn to secrecy.

Well, it's no secret that Riley is playing a fantastic Captain Corcoran in our upcoming HMS Pinafore. Get your tickets soon - opening Friday night!

Singer Spotlight: Megan Bryden

2011-08-12T09:03:00.000-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Megan Bryden

Name: Megan Bryden

Voice Type: Lyric Soprano

Role: Cousin Hebe

Hometown: Now Burnaby but originally, Victoria B.C.

Is this your first time performing with DragonDiva?

Yes, and looking forward to many more!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

Being the only person in the whole show that does not “swear” if you could call ‘damn me’ a swear word??

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

Still in progress but toying with the idea of Janet from the T.V. show, Friends. She’s so irritatingly attentive!

Favourite part of this opera?

Can’t wait to see the costumes!! Musically, the men sing a Glee song called “A British Tar” and I love that bass line!

What are your rituals before a performance?

Warm-up, A light meal, lots of water and apple slices to munch on right before.

What is your favourite opera?

That’s a three way tie: La Boheme, Magic Flute and La Traviata

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage?

Although fairly commonplace in opera, Mimi was my first dying experience and it felt pretty weird. But as far as weird things go, I once played a harem girl in the chorus of Handel’s Giulio Cesare. The women’s chorus was given self tanner that we had to put on daily so we were all really dark for the show. Unfortunately the tanner was more orange than brown and we all ended up being coloured orange for the entire run of the show!

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage?

Acting drunk while doing the can-can and singing the Czardas.

Favourite role you've ever played?

Mimi, I love that Mimi was a real person (although the story is a bit different). Puccini shows her emotional state so thoroughly in the music. I will never tire of singing that music.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically?

Right now it’s running. Ran my first 10km run last week!!

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you?

My full-time job is looking after my three sons (ages 5,4 and 2) but I also teach voice, beginner piano and just started up my own preschool music program.

Coffee or Tea?

Coooffffeeeeee!!!!!!!

Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

I love teaching young children about music. I also like painting and crafts but I’m not sure I’d call myself talented it.

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you?

My Bible, lots of chocolate, and my iphone.

An interview with conductor Diane Speirs

2011-08-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

Diane Speirs, conductor of HMS Pianfore for DragonDiva Operatic Theatre is a good friend and colleague. I knew she would be a wonderful addition to the DragonDiva family. I have always been in the musical driver's seat for DragonDiva's productions, and I thought it would hard for me to "hand over the reigns". With Diane holding the baton, it's been an easy thing for me to step aside. I had a few minutes to sit down with this wonderful musician today before rehearsal and ask a few questions.

Tell me about yourself as a conductor?

It developed organically for me. I grew up singing in church where I learned a lot about music. Conducting is mostly about having an opinion and being able to express that opinion in a way that makes sense for the singers. My conducting developed through my singing, and working from the piano. I conducted an RCMP recruit choir in Regina, which was my first time just standing and conducting rather than playing the piano and leading.

How does your singing influence your conducting?

I breathe with the singers, and understand what works and what does not work for the singers. I also take a nurturing approach rather than a dictatorial or hard approach. You get so much more out of your singers if they feel supported and encouraged and valued because singing is such a personal activity. Studying singing made me very aware of the connection between a singer and their instrument, which is their body. When you are critiqued as a singer, it is a part of you that is being critiqued.

Is this your first time conducting an entire opera?

Yes.

What was your previous experience with Gilbert and Sullivan? Has your opinion of G&S changed over the course of this show?

I’ve sung Mabel in Pirates of Penzance, but never had the opportunity to sink my teeth into the whole piece. I have found that there is more to this music than appears on the surface, even more than I realized.

What have you learned or discovered through this work?

It feels like an extension of the coaching and teaching that I have done over the past several years. At some point, there are things that you ask for that you may not get, and you have to know what to insist on. It has been a nice surprise when I have set high expectations and they have been met. At other times, you have to decide that you can live without something.

I am aware that I physically sense what is going on with the singer… if there is tension in the jaw, I feel it and it makes me more aware of my own body and my own singing. My work with Alexander Technique is useful in terms of relating to what the singers are doing physically.

It's also interesting preparing a piece with a sense of objectivity – outside of myself. You have to figure out what we need to do to get to where we need to be. It’s added a new layer to my own preparation of music.

I like the challenge of figuring out how to communicate with the singers to get what I want. We’re at the shifting place, where we’ve reached a certain level, and now it’s time to support the singers and see what they can bring to the piece. In some cases, I am letting some desires go and letting the singers give me what they are capable of giving for the place they are in right now.

Double casting is also fascinating - to see the differences between the two singers in each role.

How has the fact that you and Jeanine are both opera singers influenced the director/conductor relationship?

I appreciate the work that Jeanine does with the singers, she is very aware of the musical needs of the show. The relationship is very organic, we can venture sometimes into each others areas of responsibility with comfort and respect for each other, and it comes from a place of support.

Have you discovered anything that you don’t like about conducting?

No, I’ve enjoyed the whole process. It’s kind of sad not to have orchestra.

(NOTE: We at DragonDiva agree... it's sad. If anyone happens to want to fund an orchestra, we accept!)

I was very good at music theory. When I look at a piece of music, it makes complete sense to me. But, I hardly ever harmonically analyze my scores, I conduct music the way I feel it in my gut... I suspect that is true for you too, because you are also an intuitive musician. Is that true?

I do conduct the way the music feels. I also start with the text and do a lot of reading to gain some context for the piece. I play through the piano score to get a sense of the flow of the piece before I ever open the orchestral score.

Do you think you would approach a more “serious" opera any differently than you have this piece?

No. What would be different? Because of the style of the piece, we’ve strayed a little vocally from traditional opera singing style in some cases, but that’s typical of character singing even in "serious" opera. It’s a joy to see this piece sung by trained opera singers.

I would also start with the text in foreign language opera. The language gives them an immediate connection to what they are singing about. Hearing a singer in a foreign language and then hearing them sing in English, it can be a vastly different experience. There’s often an internal translation process going on when singing in foreign languages. When I was managing the education program for Vancouver Opera, I heard this in auditions all the time. I remember we would often ask auditioning singers to sing something in English.

I don’t talk about vocal technique much in rehearsal, because if I can get the singer to understand the journey, a lot of vocal technique issues resolve themselves. I tend to talk to them more about the emotional intent behind the music, and not so much about technique.

What surprised you about this experience?

The very real, very serious moments that appear in this piece. The relationship between conductor and singer – it can be a mutual creating experience rather than a leading/following situation.

(NOTE: I wanted to stand and applaud at this statement. I couldn't agree more!)

Would you work with DragonDiva again sometime?

Yes! Of course.

(NOTE: HURRAY!)

Come see the lovely and talented Diane Speirs leading our fantastic production of HMS Pinafore - opening next Friday!

John Arsenault, Music Director/Production Manager

A sneak peek at our rehearsal process...

2011-08-09T23:51:00.000-07:00

We're down to the last couple of weeks of rehearsal and we thought we would give you a peek at what is going on in the theatre, and where we are in the process of creating a fantastic show for our audience. I was at rehearsal last night (making some props) and had the opprotunity to peek in on what our fabulous conductor Diane Speirs and director Jeanine Fynn have been up to.

First, back to my world. Let's take a look at the set. This is what a set looks like in its very beginnings...
Now, it doesn't look like much at the moment, but we will turn it into something fantastic :-) I spent last Sunday afternoon at the theatre building ( along with several lovely and dedicated cast members who came and lent a helping hand or ten) and starting to paint this wall. This Friday, Saturday and Sunday this half finished wall will transform itself (well, ok, it won't transform itself, me and a bunch of other people will have to transform it) into a set of steampunk fabulousness. What is steampunk you ask?

steampunk [stēm' pŭngk] n: a genre of science fiction set in Victorian times when steam was the main source of power. Works of steampunk often feature anachronistic technology or futuristic innovations as Victorians may have envisioned them.

So now you know. You have all seen it before, you probably just didn't know what it was called. Think 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, or Captain Nemo and the Underwater city, and there you have it.

Next, let me show you the fabulous little theatre you will be seeing this delightful steampunk fabulousness in. We co-produce these shows with the Vagabond Players, the resident company int he Bernie Legge Theatre. In 1997 this wonderful old building was given the name Bernie Legge in memory one of the most venerated and celebrated Vagabonds, and a dedicated ambassador to the community of New West and beyond for theatre arts. Thanks Mr. Legge, for all you have done for the performing arts and for this beautiful space to perform in!

When I finally took a break from all my prop making and peeked my head in to the rehearsal, I was delighted with what I saw and heard. I laughed out loud several times, and the singing is lovely. As usual, Ms. Fynn's directing is inspired, and Ms. Speirs wields a mean baton (mean as in wicked good... not as in she is one of "those" conductors). It was great to see our cast dancing and singing and having a good time. Unfortunately my camera had died by this time, and so this is a phone picture... but you get the idea.

We're very pleased with how things are going, and can't wait to show you all some steampunk fabulousness! Check out a clip from our reheasal here:

HMS Pinafore - This Very Night

See you soon! Please buy your tickets today!

John Arsenault
Production Manager

Singer Spotlight: Russell Cripps

2011-07-04T22:29:00.000-07:00

HMS Pinafore
Singer Spotlight

Russell Cripps

Name: Russell Cripps

Voice Type: Baritone

Role: Sir Joseph Porter, KCB

Hometown: Maple Ridge, BC

Is this your first time performing with DragonDiva?

Nope! Second. I was one of the Lord Chancellors in Iolanthe two years ago. My upper-class gentility shines through again!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing?

Sir Joe likes to take centre stage, and show off!

Where did you find inspiration for this role?

He’s the most extremely self-absorbed person, so I just stop thinking about anyone else besides ME.

Favourite part of this opera?

Buttercup’s secret that she alludes to in the second or third song, and doesn’t reveal until the second-to-last! Gilbert’s writing makes me smile every time.

What are your rituals before a performance?

I’m still developing rituals, but last week I had a bar of chocolate before a show, and had a great time. Maybe that will become my thing?

What is your favourite opera?

That’s tough… I still remember an incredible production I saw of Midsummer Night’s Dream in Hamburg, so I’ll choose that one.

Ever been asked to do something strange on stage?

Three unusual moments off the top of my head: stripping in a number from “The Full Monty”; riding a child’s tricycle; and lip-synching and dancing to Beyonce’s “Single Ladies” in the middle of a G&S overture.

What’s the most difficult thing you’ve done on stage?

In the play version of Orwell’s 1984 I was being dragged across the stage to room 101 for interrogation. After rehearsing that scene a few times one day, I remember feeling absolutely wipes out from all that emotional yelling (not to mention the bruises)!

Favourite role you’ve ever played?

Shoot! Even harder than the favourite opera question. I pretended to be a Backsteet Boy in Chor Leoni’s concert last week and had a swell time… and really enjoyed being the loner telegraph operator in Applause Musical’s production of Titanic.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing?

A friend just introduced me to dodgeball, and I’m having a blast!

A lot of singers have day jobs… do you?

You bet! I’m a high school music teacher in Vancouver.

Coffee or tea?

I’d prefer a hot chocolate if you have it (are you noticing a the trend?) but tea’s just fine.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing?

Well, if I told you, I’d have to kill you…

You’re trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope to have with you?

A piano, a pile of sheet music, and an appreciative (captive) audience.

Tell us a joke.

Why was the Cyclops a bad teacher? He only had one pupil!

Any upcoming performances to share?

I’m looking forward to singing with musica intima for their next season.

Staging Begins!

2011-07-02T15:49:00.001-07:00

We held our last music rehearsal for HMS Pinafore last Thursday. It was a good time, everyone is singing beautifully and we have such a great group of people this year. It is sure to be a hilarious and wonderfully sung show!

Stay tuned for updates from our staging rehearsals - as well as some spotlights on our singers, and an inteview with our guest conductor this year, Diane Spiers.

John Arsenault
Production Manager

HMS Pinafore - we're off to the races!

2011-06-26T22:45:00.000-07:00

DragonDiva Operatic Theatre is on the move again! Rehearsals started June 13 for our summer production of HMS Pinafore in the Bernie Legge Theatre, Queen's Park, New Westminster. We have assembled a fantastic cast of singers and actors for this show, all being led under the baton of the lovely Diane Speirs.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress of the show over the coming weeks, and to find out a little bit more about our singers!

Cheers,
John Arsenualt
Music Director/Production Manager

Cabaret Around the World

2011-05-04T07:21:00.001-07:00

Subject: ANNOUNCEMENT: Cabaret Around the World Concert CANCELLED

DragonDiva Operatic Theatre called an emergency board meeting on
Saturday to discuss some crucial issues. Unfortunately, I am posting
this message with the sad news that DragonDiva is cancelling our Cabaret Around the World event.

Like all other arts organizations at this time, we are feeling the
pinch of the current economy. As of this Friday, we had only sold
eight tickets to this event. Were we to move ahead with this show and invest the almost $4,000 it would cost to pull it off, we would be at serious risk of not being able to put on a mainstage production this summer.

This decision was an extremely difficult one for board members. We are so grateful to all of you for being so supportive of DragonDiva. We sincerely hope to see you at future DragonDiva Productions.

We are also grateful to all of the singers for being willing to
participate in this event and give so freely of your time and
wonderful talents. We hope to work with all of you in
future.

Sincerely,

Janet Zathureczky

Some Saucy Ladies!

2011-04-25T19:45:00.000-07:00

Here at DragonDiva we love our Saucy Ladies! So we thought we would take a moment to share with you some of the "Saucy Ladies" that will be performing in our Cabaret Around the World.

First we'd like to introduce you to our very own board member Dionne Sellinger:

Mezzo Soprano Dionne Sellinger received her Bachelor and Masters in Opera from the University of British Columbia. Dionne performed a number of leading roles with the U.B.C. ensemble including Cherubino in Le Nozze di Figaro, and the title role in Florence Nightingale: The Lady with the Lamp. Dionne was a member of Calgary Opera’s Inaugural Emerging Young Artists Program and has since returned to perform Maman in Ravels’ L’Enfant et Sortileges, and Rosette in Manon by Massenet. She has performed Rosina in Barber of Seville with Burnaby Lyric Opera, and toured The Barber of Barkerville with V.O.I.S. as Rosie, a role reprised with Edmonton Opera. Dionne has performed Kate Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly and Alisa in Lucia di Lammermoor with Vancouver Opera. She joined DragonDiva Operatic Theatre as Prince Charming in Cendrillon and played the title role in Iolanthe. She performed in Opera on the Avalon’s production of Albert Herring as Nancy and next season will be back in Edmonton as Peep-Bo in The Mikado. Dionne is excited to return to Calgary to join the cast of Gianni Schicchi as La Ciesca.

Our next Saucy Lady is the lovely Miss Margo Lavae:

Soprano Margo Levae hails from the Queen Charlotte Islands in Northern British Columbia and is currently completing her Masters in Opera in the studio of Roelof Oostwoud at the University of British Columbia. Margo is the honored recipient of a University Graduate Fellowship and was also a finalist in the School of Music Concerto Competition (2009). In 2010, Margo was awarded one of three scholarships in the Vancouver Women’s Musical Society voice competition and appeared in recital for the society in November.

Margo has been featured as soprano soloist in J.S Bach’s Magnificat with the UBC Singers and Orchestra as well as Mendelssohn’s Elijah with the Vancouver Bach Choir and the Pacific Singers. Performances with the UBC Opera Ensemble include Anna Maurrant in Street Scene (Kurt Weill), Mother in Hansel and Gretel (Humperdinck) and Ciesca in Gianni Schicchi (Puccini). Margo has also traveled to Teplice, Czech Republic with the UBC Opera Ensemble to perform the role of Donna Elvira in Mozart’s Don Giovanni (2008) and the role of Fiordiligi in Mozart’s Cosí fan tutte (2009). Both productions were remounted as part of Vancouver’s Bard on the Beach festival with conductor Leslie Dala and members of The Vancouver Opera Orchestra.

And finally the ever modest Megan Morrison:

A diverse and passionate performer, Megan’s career extends from opera to musical theatre to cabaret. Recent performance highlights include Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls (Chemainus Theatre), Dorabella in Così fan tutte (Burnaby Lyric Opera), Marlene Dietrich in Marlene Cabaret (Mirateca Arts), Ruth in Pirates of Penzance (DragonDiva), Trommler in Der Kaiser von Atlantis (City Opera), Hansel in Hansel and Gretel (Opera Appassionata), Theresa in Boy Gets Girl (Wicked Awesome Theatre) and and Rapunzel in Into the Woods (Patrick Street Productions).

Megan has also appeared as a concert soloist in repertoire ranging from Handel’s Messiah (Vancouver Bach Choir) to intimate songs of love and heartache with frequent collaborator, pianist and vocalist Karen Lee-Morlang. Also an accomplished actor off of the stage, Megan has several credits in film, tv and radio. She is a proud member of the Vancouver Opera Chorus. For more information, please feel free to visit Megan online at meganmorrison.org

Stay tuned for "More Saucy Ladies" and then "Even More Saucy Ladies"
We will get to the Charming Chaps next week!

Go and buy your tickets right now at: http://bit.ly/dSWBqq

Also be sure to follow all of our news and shenanigans at:
www.facebook.com/DragonDivaOpera

Or our twitter #DragonDivaOpera

An All Star Cast

2011-04-22T12:48:00.000-07:00

We'd like to introduce you first to our emcee for the evening, the lovely Ms. Karen Ydenberg. We are so pleased that she is joining us for this concert and we know that you will not want to miss her charm and beautiful voice.

Soprano Karen Ydenberg has performed roles with several Canadian opera companies, including Vancouver Opera, The Canadian Opera Company, and Edmonton Opera. Roles performed include Echo in Ariadne auf Naxos, First Lady in The Magic Flute, Fifth Maid in Elektra, Paquette in Candide, Peep-Bo in The Mikado, and Frasquita in Carmen . In addition to several main stage roles and understudies with the Canadian Opera Company, Karen performed the role of Gretel over 100 times with the Canadian Opera Company’s Educational Outreach tours of Hansel and Gretel. Karen also performed with The Playhouse Theatre Company as Mrs. Segstrom in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music. In addition, she sang the title role in Canadian composer Janet Danielson’s opera Mariken of Nimmigen with Vancouver’s Music In the Morning.

Karen is co-creator of the Classical Comedy Duo LEAVE IT TO DIVA, together with Soprano Phoebe MacRae. They have created and performed several staged concerts at the Festival Vancouver, Vancouver Fringe Festival and the Nelson Summer Songfest.

Karen is a former member of the Canadian Opera Company Studio Ensemble and the Vancouver Opera Ensemble. She holds a Bachelor of Music Degree in Voice Performance from the University of British Columbia and has also studied at the Banff Centre for the Arts in Banff, Alberta.

And now we'd like to introduce you to the ever talented and modest Angus Kellett. Angus has been with DragonDiva since the beginning and we know that he will tickle the ivories to your pleasure during this our first annual fund raising benefit.

Angus Kellett has been active in opera and musical theatre in Vancouver for the past
six years. He has worked as a repetiteur on 15 productions for Vancouver Opera, most
recently on La traviata, and has performed in numerous productions for DragonDiva,
including The Pirates of Penzance, The Elixir of Love, Iolanthe, Hansel and Gretel,
and Cendrillon. He has also music directed several shows for Applause! Musicals in
Concert, and was the assistant music director for Gateway Theatre’s recent
production of Annie.

Tickets are available at the Massey Theatre Box Office:
http://bit.ly/dSWBqq

Make sure to follow us on our Facebook for trivia and your chance to win tickets this amazing concert:
www.facebook.com/DragonDivaOpera

2011-04-18T20:15:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls, DragonDiva Operatic Theatre is proud to announce that we are less than one month away from our first annual fundraising concert "Cabaret Around The World." On Saturday May 14th our emcee Karen Ydenberg will take you on a magical journey around the world with fabulous selections from opera, operetta, musical theatre and cabaret. Joining us on stage will be some of your favorite local singers including but not necessarily limited to:

John Arsenault, Angus Bell, Jeanine Fynn, Joel Klein, Melanie Krueger, Margo Levae, Harout Markarian, Riley McMitchell, Gina Morel, Megan Morrison, Dionne Sellinger, Diane Speirs, Szu-Wen Wang, and Janet Zathureczky.

We also have for your viewing and listening pleasure several of what we in the industry like to call "Saucy Sidekicks". They are Carolyn Barker, Christine Dibble and Jessica Wright.

Finally joining us on keys is our very own Angus Kellett accompanied by the lovely and talented Brad Dean on bass.

Tickets are available through the Massey Box Office
http://bit.ly/dSWBqq

Follow us on Facebook Fan page www.facebook.com/DragonDivaOpera or our Twitter http://twitter.com/DragonDivaOpera for multiple chances to win FREE tickets and to stay on top of all of our upcoming shenanigans and such!

DragonDiva Operatic Theatre is in Opera Canada!

2011-04-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

DragonDiva

In Review

DragonDiva has been reviewed in Opera Canada! Very exciting news for us... check out what they had to say:

DragonDiva Operatic Theatre, a new company created and nurtured by Artistic Director Jeanine Fynn and Music Director John Arsenault, presented a polished Cendrillon by Massenet (seen Aug. 29). Given in an English translation by Arsenault and Dionne Sellinger, Fynn's staging achieved a delightful counterpoint between the broad humorr of a hen-pecked husband dealing with an imperious wife and two obnoxious Stepdaughters and the anguished romance of the principals.

It played out in the historic, 180 seat Bernie Legge Theatre, originally built in Queen's Park by the federal government in 1909 as a fisheries exhibition space. Arsenault conducted, with piano accompaniment by Angus Kellett.

Cinderella/ Lucette, sung by lyric mezzo Lisa-Dawn Kilthau, projected a resigned optimism in her carefillly shaped phrasing and clear articulation. Her voice warmed as she discovered love, then tumed to anguish with her required midnight escape. Lyric mczzo Dionne Sellinger was a very convincing courtly young man in the trouser role of Prince Charming. She has the dark, dramatic voice Massenet's score demands, and used it to full advantage. Her height and fluid movement, owning her space on stage, further added to a memorable portrayal.

Bass Max van Wyck combined humor and poignancy singing Pandolfe, the harried father. Still studying at the University of British Columbia, he has a strong, resonant bass that belies his years. Contralto Andi Alexander, as Mme. de la Haltiere, maintained a commanding disdain throughout the opera as she attempted to bring her unattractive daughters to the prince's notice. The stepsisters brought a touch of British pantomime to the stage in their exaggerations and awkwardness. The panto theme was emphasized by casting tenor Grant Wardlow as one of the stepsisters. He managed to be very funny without coming off as a drag queen, and played off his sister, Noemie, sung by soprano Dora Brooks, with great panache.

Entering through a picture frame on the wall may not make for a great entrance, but coloratura soprano Szu-Wen Wang made it work with her incandescent intonation and carefully crafted phrasing as the Fairy Godmother. Baritone Nicholas FitzGerald (the King), tenor Kevin Lee (Dean/herald) and Diana Sandberg (maid) contributed to the mix, as did the spirits/elves and ladies of thc court.

- Hilary Clark

Here's to many more successful reviews!
John Arsenault
Music Director

Singer Spotlight: Paul Just

2011-04-05T21:26:00.000-07:00

Singer Spotlight

Paul Just

Paul Just, tenor, is very pleased to be working with DragonDiva Operatic Theatre once again. He was last seen with Dragon Diva as Lord Tolloller in the 2009 production of Gilbert and Sullivan's Iolanthe and the previous summer's The Elixir of Love by Gaetano Donizetti. Paul began taking formal lessons at the age of 19 at St. John's University in Minnesota. After receiving his B.A. in Vocal Performance in 2005, Paul then moved to Vancouver and began his M.Mus in Opera at the University of British Columbia. After completing his formal education in 2009, Paul began to study privately with baritone Peter Barcza, with whom he is currently studying. Some of his favorite roles over the near decade that he's been singing include Nemorino in Donizetti's L'Elisir d'amore, Eisenstein in Johann Strauss' Die Fledermaus and Edgardo in Donizetti's bel canto masterpiece Lucia di Lammermoor. In 2004, Paul had the great distinction of premiering the title role in the American one-act opera, The King's Tower, by composer Tim Cheesebrow. Paul is proud to join the stage with the alumnae of DragonDiva Operatic Theatre for an evening of operatic projects of the past, present and future!

We caught up with Paul and
asked him a few questions to
whet your appetite for the
show.

(Q) Can you describe one
of your favorite moments
from a DragonDiva Production?

(A) One of my favorite
moments of the DragonDiva Productions that I've been in was during The Elixir of Love, when the mute character, Sasparilla (Carolyn Barker) saw that some wine had been spilled on the stage during the middle of a scene and proceeded to lick it off the floor using her hand. I was in stitches, the audience was in stitches, and I have rarely seen such dedication to a role as I did that night.

(Q) What is the most obscure/strange opera
that you can think of and what makes it
interesting?

(A) The most obscure opera that I can think
of...hmm. That is an unfair question
because I live and love obscure opera.
HAHA! I'd have to say one of those that I
consider an opera rara would have to be
Verdi's Un giorno di regno (otherwise
known as Il finto Stanislao). The world
has long ignored this opera, but I cannot
really see why? Verdi had some great
success with his first opera, Oberto,
conte di San Bonifacio, but his second
(and very nearly last) attempt at opera
and first attempt at comedy fell into
obscurity and oblivion. And that is an incredible shame. Why I really enjoy this
one so much is two-fold: 1) it's Verdi, so we already know it's genius and
2) it's a comedy (a funny one, at that), something Verdi didn't do again until
the end of his career. I think it needs to be brough out of obscurity because
all of Verdi's music, no matter what Verdi may have thought of it, needs to
be heard! (As does much obscure music that is ignored!)
Who knew you were such an opera rara afficionado, well actually we did
know, that's why we come to you with this question. We knew you would
be able to answer with gusto and penache ;)

Up Next your chance to win tickets to our Cabaret Around the World!

Singer Spotlight: Szu-Wen Wang

2011-03-31T16:12:00.000-07:00

Singer Spotlight

Szu-Wen

Wang

Soprano Szu-Wen Wang has been involved in DragonDiva productions for several years. Some of her performances with DragonDiva have included the Fairy Godmother in Cinderella in 2010, Gretel in Hansel and Gretel in 2009, Phyllis in Iolanthe in 2009, and Gianetta in Elixir of Love in 2008. Opera Canada has praised her performance in Handel's Amadigi as having "taste, restraint and good vocal control," and applauded her "carefully nuanced and ably delivered" singing of Cio-Cio-San in Vancouver Island Opera's production of Madama Butterfly. Szu-Wen holds a Bachelor's degree in Vocal Performance from Taipei National University of the Arts, a Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Vocal Performance from the University of Texas at Austin. She is excited to be involved in the Minoru Chapel Opera Nights Concert and hopes you can catch this performance and future DragonDiva productions.

Szu-Wen leads a very busy schedule
but she was able to answer a couple
questions to whet your appetite for
the Minoru concert.

(Q) Can you share one of your favorite
moments that happened during a
DragonDiva Production?

(A) Honestly I enjoyed every moment of each DragonDiva production I have been involved with. But if I really have to single out a certain moment, I have to say, watching my colleagues dancing in "Loudly let the trumpet Bray" in Iolanthe cracks me up every time I think of it. It was just too funny and brilliant!

(Q) What show would you love for DragonDiva to produce and what role would you like to sing?

(A) Too many to list them all here, but I do hope to star as Olympia in Offenbach's "Les Contes D'Hoffmann" before I get too old to look like a doll.

(Q) Can you tell us a little about what
your process is when you are preparing
a role for the opera stage?

(A) Usually I start with getting all of
the notes right first. As we all know,
it's much harder to fix musical
mistakes later on. Then I spend
lots of time on the diction. Then I
work on the characteristic of the role.

Szu-Wen will be singing scenes from last summers hit Cinderella as well as Elixir of Love and Hansel and Gretel. Don't miss out on your chance to hear this amazing soprano.

Up next a few words from our Vice-President Janet Vandertol

Singer Spotlight: Janet Vandertol-Zathureczky

2011-03-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

Singer
Spotlight

Janet Vandertol-Zathureczky

Soprano, Janet Vandertol-Zathureczky is excited to once again be joining her DragonDiva colleagues for a fantastic excerpt concert. Janet has been a DragonDiva board member since the company's inception and is the current board Vice President. Some of her performances with DragonDiva have incluced the 2010 Mother's Day concert with the New West SYmphony, the Mother in Humperdinck's Hansel and Gretel in December 2009, the Fairy Queen in Gilbert and Sullivan's Iolanthe in August 2009 and the Christmas concert "Winter Wonderland" in December 2008. She looks forward to DragonDiva's spring concert at the Massey Theatre in May 2011 and their summer show H.M.S. Pinafore, which promises to be an exciting production! Janet has been singing for many years and holds both a Bachelor and Masters in Music from UBC. She hopes that you will be able to make it to this wonder concert at the Minoru Chapel to enjoy hits from seasons past and a look forward to future DragonDiva productions.

So we have taken some time to
get to know the singers from this
concert and we can't wait to hear
Janet's answer to our round of
questioning.

(Q) Can you share with us one
of your favorite moments from
a DragonDiva Production.

(A) My absolute favourite DD
moment!! I think it was when I
dropped by a Cinderella rehearsal
last summer and heard the duet
between Cinderella and the Prince.
WOWOWOW! Amazing music!
I also love being on the board. The
commitment which John and Jeanine have to providing young singers with opportunities outside of their degree work is just fantastic.

(Q) What show would you just die for DragonDiva to produce and what role would you love to sing?

(A) I find this so hard to answer because I want to do so many shows. I think Cosi fan Tutte would be amazing and Turandot, but then there is Un Ballo in Maschera and Norma, and who could forget about Der Freischutz...you see I can't narrow it down. But I think Suor Angelica would be an excellent show for DD to produce and I would love to sing the role of Suor Angelica.

(Q) Where would you like to see
DragonDiva in 5 years?

(A) I would like to see
DragonDiva develop its
learning and development
opportunities for singers.
Every summer young
singers from the Lower
Mainland are flying
themselves all over the
world to attend Young
Artist Programs.
We have the a lot of the skills and resources to create opportunities here for their development right here in Vancouver. We really just need to grab ahold of what is available to us and see where ingenuity can take us. And with the talent which is present in the Lower Mainland, the possibilities are endless.

Thank you so much for sharing your vision with us Janet. I also think that we need to "grab ahold of what is available."

Janet will be singing scenes from Madama Butterfly and Iolanthe at this concert. Seats are limited so don't miss your chance to hear this astounding soprano.

Singer Spotlight: Lisa-Dawn Kilthau

2011-03-29T19:30:00.000-07:00

Singer Spotlight

Lisa-Dawn

Kilthau

Mezzo-Soprano Lisa-Dawn Nelsina Kilthau is thrilled to be collaborating with many talented musicians for this wonderful excerpt concert. Lisa-Dawn had the incredible opportunity of bringing to life the title role in Massenet's Cinderella, working with DragonDiva Operatic Theatre this past summer. She was immersed in the production from start to finish, performing as well as participating in the technical side. Lisa-Dawn has worked as a costume technician and designer for a wide range of productions; Cinderella was a pleasure to costume and an even greater pleasure to sing. Lisa-Dawn currently studies under the tutelage of baritone Dale Throness. She began her formal vocal training in 2002 at Kwantlen University College, and continued her academic studies through 2010 when she graduated from the University of British Columbia with a Masters in Opera. Lisa-Dawn's recent performances include the role of Julie Riel in the Western Canadian Premier of Harry Somer's masterpiece Louis Riel, La Suora Zelatrice in Puccini's Suor Angelica, and the mother in Humperdinck's Hansel and Gretel. Lisa-Dawn also had the honor of creating the role of Antonia Wolff in the world premier of Lloyd Burrit's The Dream Healer. Lisa-Dawn hopes that you will make it to see the Minoru Nights Opera show and will join DragonDiva again in the future for more incredible music and entertainment.

We wanted to get to know Lisa-Dawn a
little better so we asked her a few
questions. Here is her responses.

(Q) Can you tell us about one of your
favorite moments that happened during
a DragonDiva Production?

(A) I really love the entire process of
creating a role - learning the music and
language, absorbing the staging, creating
realism by adding your own subtext, bringing the characters to life with costumes and make-up...Cinderella was definitely a dream role to perform; the music is stunning, you have plenty of stage time to let the character develop throughout the show, and what girl wouldn't want to play the heroine in the fairytale of all fairytales? But the very best moments are when everything comes together, and for a short space of time you forget that you are performing. This happened for me in the forest scene, a duet between Cinderella and the Prince. I was incredibly lucky to have the talented Dionne Sellinger play my Prince. The blend of two mezzo-voices was a stroke of genius on Massenet's part; litteraly every time we sang that duet, I would get shivers. Our last performance seemed to gel particularly well, and when the curtain came down at the end of that scene, Dionne and I were so thrilled by how it went that we just stood there in a great big bear hug, and I almost missed my quick-change for the next scene.

(Q) Do you have any hobbies or activities that you
like to take part in during your free time?

(A) I love dancing; I do a lot of swing and blues
dance, and enjoy a wide variety of other partner
dances as well. I think it is just another form
of simultaneously connecting to people and music.
I also really enjoy cooking and baking, especcialy
with friends. And when I can make the time, any
form of art; jewelry making, drawing, painting etc.

(Q) Can you describe what it is that draws you to
the Opera stage?

(A) I am a relatively shy person; it might be hard to understand, but the though of public speaking scares me. Performing takes me out of myself, and allows me to express in ways I wouldn't be comfortable with otherwise. I love that I can take on a character and be someone else for a space of time; flamboyant or timid, outspoken or reserved. The options are endless. Opera can bring stories to life, with all of the different elements.

Thanks Lisa-Dawn for taking the time to answer our questions and let us get to know you a little better.

DragonDiva Fans it is a little more than a week away to our season opener at the Minoru Chapel Opera Nights. Seating is very limited so don't miss your chance to see this concert of hits from previous seasons.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=173112002741382

Be sure to keep updated with our blog. Our next update is only a few days away featuring soprano Szu-Wen Wang.

Singer Spotlight: Dora Brooks

2011-03-22T16:13:00.000-07:00

Singer Spotlight

Dora

Brooks

Dora Brooks is a featured soloist in our up-coming Minoru Opera Nights Concert. She is a talented, young soprano, currently living in New Westminster. Dora has been involved in almost every show in DragonDiva's history: Gianetta in Elixir of Love, The Sandman in Hansel and Gretel, Phyllis in Iolanthe, and Naomie and Cinderella in last year's Cinderella. She also branched out a bit last year and costumed Cinderella with Lisa-Dawn Kilthau. Dora also sang in last year's New Westminster Cultural Crawl at the Irving House Museum. Dora's operatic roles also include Virtu and Drusilla in La Coronazione di Poppea, and Emmie in Albert Herring. She has performed numerous partial roles, including Susanna in Le Nozze di Figaro, Gretel in Hansel and Gretel, Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni, Echo and Zerbinetta in Ariadne auf Naxos, and the title role in Flotow's Martha, to name a few! Dora Also was the female lead in the premier of the musical Stump City Stories, by George Ryan in 2009, and the remount with New Westminster Secondary School in 2010. Dora is looking forward to the busy musical year coming up.


Dora as Naomie in Cinderella

We had a chance to catch up with Dora
and ask her a few questions. Here's
what she had to say.

(Q) What is your favorite experience
with DragonDiva so far?

(A) It seems corny, but I've had a
'special' experience (and a great
time) each time I've been invovled
in a DragonDiva production. My
favorite? Hmm...well, it was super
stressful, but last summer's
production of Cinderella is tops
on my list. Playing a lead role,
understudying the title role (with
a performance, even!), and
co-costuming the show was about
the craziest thing I've ever done - and I LOVED it!

(Q) What show would you absolutely go GAGA for DragonDiva to produce, and what role would you sing?

(A) Le Nozze di Figaro - full stop. How awesome would that production be? As for which role - can I choose Susannah AND Countess? Yes? Why not...

Dora as Gianetta in Elixir of Love

(Q) If you could be a different voice type in order to sing a single role what would it be and why.

(A) Lyric coloratura. That might seem strange to those who know me and my aversion to too many notes on a single syllable' (I swear I get hives...), but two of my favorite characters fall into this voice type: Ophelia in Thomas' Hamlet, and Zerbinetta in Strauss' Ariadne auf Naxos. Ophelia has one of the *BEST* mad/death scenes (or should I say 'act'), and who doesn't want to sing Zerbinetta's incredible marathon aria, singing for over 20 mins straight? Or maybe I am just nuts. If I had to choose between these two, I'd choose, well, both.

Final Thought: I must admit I was hoping to hear Dora say that she wanted to be a Basso or perhaps a baritone singing Flying Dutchman just for the funniness of it but I am sure glad that she sings what she does because she has one of the most beautiful soprano voices I have heard. I for one would pay big dollars to hear her sing Zerbinetta.

Don't miss your chance to hear Dora singing at our Minoru Concert in Richmond and be sure to stay-tuned for our next Singer Spotlight Featuring: Lisa-Dawn Kilthau and for chances to win tickets to our upcoming Cabaret Around the World at the Massey Theatre on May 14th.

Check out our 2011 Season

2011-03-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

2011 Season Announcement

Minoru Chapel Opera

When: April 6^th, 2011

2:30pm / 7:30 pm

Where: Minoru Chapel

6450 Gilbert Road, Richmond

Beside the Gateway Theatre

Tickets: $20 (adults); $18 (Students/Seniors)

$15 (groups of 10 or more)

Available at operanights@richmond.ca

Limited Seating

A co-production with the

City of Richmond Minoru Chapel Opera Series

Cabaret Around The World

When: May 14^th, 2011

7:30 pm

Where: Massey Theatre

735 eighth Avenue, New Westminster

Tickets: $30 (adults); $25 (Students/Seniors)

               On Sale April 1st
               www.masseytheatre.com/boxoffice.html
               or 604-521-5050

Production Sponsored by

Massey Helps Grant

H.M.S. Pinafore

When: August 2011

Where: Bernie Legge Theatre

Queens Park, New Westminster BC

Directions available at

www.vagabongplayers.ca/direction.htm

Tickets: $25 (adults); $23 (Students/Seniors)

$20 (groups of 10 or more)

On sale July 1st

www.masseytheatre.com/boxoffice.html
or 604-521-5050

Hansel and Gretel

When: December 2011

Where: TBA

Tickets: $25 (adults); $23 (Students/Seniors)

               $20 (groups of 10 or more)

               On Sale Nov 15th
               www.masseytheatre.com/boxoffice.html
   or 604-521-5050

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/DragonDiva-Operatic-Theatre/109555175786066

Letter From the President

2011-03-13T13:42:00.000-07:00

Letter from

The

President

2011 Season

Announcement

Dear DragonDiva Fans and Family,

As the President and founding Artistic Director of DragonDiva Operatic
Theatre, I am so excited to welcome you to our fifth season. The company
started on a whim four years ago, and now I'm proud to say we have
become a well-known player in the local opera scene. Each year, we all
work very hard to improve upon our past successes and to provide
increasingly professional quality shows for our performers and audiences.

We try to always include poignant moments that tug at your heart strings,
laugh-out-loud moments that have poeple falling out of their charis, and a
couple surprises to keep people on their toes. Two of my farourite such
moments came from our last production - Cinderalla.

The first time the curtains opened to show
the forest, I gasped, and every night I
heard the audience do the same. It was
so beautiful, and the cast did the change
so quickly and seamlessly that it really
did feel like magic.

My favorite poignant moment
comes from that show as well...
the duet between Cinderella
and the Prince when they are
separated by a wall of clover.
It brought me to tears every time
Lisa-Dawn Kilthau and Dionne
Sellinger sang it. The torment they
felt was just so believable, and
the blending of those two voices
was gorgeous.

Perhaps my favourite funny moment to date was in the final
performance of Elixir of Love in 2008. Sasparilla
(our invented character - a mute sidekick to Dr. Dulcamara)
was to come on stage and listen to a scene while eating a
piece of wedding cake. The final night, the stage manager
gave her what was left - an entire half round of a lemon pound cake.
Carolyn Barker (who played Sasparilla) took some of the biggest
mouthfuls I've ever seen, but by the time she left the stage, that cake
was gone. I couldn't stop laughing at both the absurdity of the situation
and her determination.

Both John Arsenault (our founding music director) and I are also singers.
I think that's part of our success when we're building a show...we know
how a singer will react to the things we're asking for,and what their needs
will be, because we are singers ourselves. I've yet to join a cast onstage
for our main productions, but I am lucky enough to join in for our concerts
and fundraising events.

For these reasons and many more, I hope that you will join DragonDiva
Operatic Theatre in 2011 for our 5th season and stay with us to find out
what happens in the next 5 years of DragonDiva Opera.

                                                Sincerely
                                                Jeanine Fynn
                                                President and Artistic Director
                                                DragonDiva Operatic Theatre

P.S. Stay tuned for our exciting season announcement coming in
just a few short days.

AUDITIONS ARE HERE!

2011-02-11T01:07:00.000-08:00

DragonDiva Operatic Theatre is holding auditions for the following 2011 events and productions:

· Opera Cabaret – Saturday, May 14, 2011 (All voice types required)

· HMS Pinafore* – August 2011 (rehearsals to start in mid-June, dates to be confirmed by audition date)

· Hansel and Gretel* – December 2011 (dates TBD)

*HMS Pinafore and Hansel and Gretel are NON-Equity productions.

Audition Requirements

Principal Roles - Three opera arias (contrasting styles) of your choice. One aria must be in English.

Chorus/Supporting Roles - Two selections from the opera, operetta, or musical theatre repertoire of your choice. One selection must be in English.

Audition Information

Location: Carousel Theatre, Granville Island (large rehearsal hall)

Date: Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Time: 6PM – 10PM

To request an audition time, please contact us at: auditions@dragondiva.org (preferred) or call audition coordinator Christine Dibble at 604-338-1061.

A professional accompanist will be available for a fee of $10 per audition.

Opening Night!

2010-08-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

Well, we're finally here. Tomorrow is opening night. Come see this wonderfully talented cast weave this beautiful fairy tale. You won't be disappointed!

If you want to hear some more about the show, here's an interview with me conducted by Jennifer Lee Gunson!

Cinderella Interview

John Arsenault
Music Director

You're Just Jealous Because I'm More Prettier Than You.

2010-08-18T14:52:00.000-07:00

The title comes courtesy of Grant Wardlow, who plays Dorothy, and pulled that line out of his hat during a performance a couple weeks back. It stuck, and now you'll hear it in his very dramatic entrance onstage.

As promised, a couple photo teasers of the show...it's so visually stimulating...I love it!

Photo: Natalie Burdeny as Madame de la Haltière, Grant Wardlow as Dorothy, and Rachel Stewart as Noemie.

Party-goers at the Palace: Rachel Hart, Elisa Rolston, Jackie Ko, Diana Sandberg, Robin Eder-Warren, Andrzej Jeziorski

Lovers united: Kathleen Morrison as Fairy Godmother, Andrzej Jeziorski as Prince Charming, Anna Whelan as Cinderella, Kevin Lee, Max van Wyck and Diana Sandberg as Spirits

Now is the time!

2010-08-17T14:24:00.001-07:00

We're here, folks! Cinderella opens in three sleeps!

We all made it through the technical rehearsal last night (some of us barely so). Dress rehearsals start tonight, and everything seems to be coming together! The costumes are beautiful. The family looks ridiculously over the top. The Fairy scene in the forest is purely magical. There are some stunning visuals, and tonight we'll see them together with the action and the music...this is when it truly gets exciting.

I'll post a pic or two for you folks tomorrow. For now, just a quick reminder that there are still tickets available for every performance. If you're buying tickets at the door, remember to bring cash!

Cheers,
Jeanine Fynn
Artistic Director, Stage Director, Set designer, Programme designer, Set builder/Painter/Sewer, Props shopper, and Proud Mama of this Show

Singer Spotlight - Kathleen Morrison

2010-08-15T13:01:00.000-07:00

Name: Kathleen Morrison
Voice Type: Coloratura Soprano
Role: Fairy Godmother
Hometown: Right now it's Vancouver, but I was born and raised in Calgary, AB

Is this your first time performing with DD? Yes, and I look forward to many more!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing? I feel like I get to put the glitter on the beautiful voices of the chorus of Spirits and Elves that sing with me; as well being the protector of Cinderella!! Plus, I'm pretty sure that every little girl has dreamed of having a Fairy Godmother - I actually get to be her!

Where did you find inspiration for this role? Vocal inspiration for me comes from the great singers; Sutherland, Sills, Damrau, and Dessay. Dramatic inspiration comes from believing that everyone deserves the chance to experience true love no matter who they are, or where they come from. Also, sometimes true love needs a helping hand!

Favourite part of this opera? It is during my second aria in Act III. As the Spirits and Elves are sleeping onstage, the all begin humming and singing, but you can't really tell that they are doing it!! Massenet creates this ethereal atmosphere and is the most calming and beautiful sound to be supported by.

What are your rituals before a performance? A hearty meal, a hot cup of coffee, and a quiet place to focus.

What is your favourite opera? Tough call... it might be a 3 way tie between Strauss' Salome, Mozart's Magic Flute, and Verdi's La Traviata.

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage? Absolutely! Directors can be a strange bunch. I think having a giant, loud bite of an apple during Dorabella's aria from Cosi fan tutte right after her dramatic moment ranks pretty high. Tough to time as well!

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage? Singing in the pouring rain during an outdoor concert getting completely soaked, trying to keep the music, drama, dress, and hair in order. I ended up taking my shoes off because they kept sinking into the grass!

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically? Enjoying great food, drink, company, and conversation.

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you? I sell watches and sunglasses at a small retail store on 4th Ave.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing? I've been told that I'm a pretty good whistler.

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you? A bubble bath, a good bottle of wine, and my dog Brutus!

Tell us a joke.

How do you know when there's a singer at the door?

They can't find the key and they don't know when to come in.

[ed note: this seems like a popular joke. hmmm...]

Singer Spotlight - Natalie Burdeny

2010-08-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

Name: Natalie Burdeny

Voice Type: Contralto
Role:

Madame de la Haltière
Hometown:

North Vancouver
Website:

http://natalieburdeny.com/

Is this your first time performing with DD? Yes

Favourite thing about the role you are playing? Madame de la Haltière is a character role. While still able to impose beautiful singing it is a role that really allows you to create a character that is over the top and play with comedic emotions making the rehearsal process a really enjoyable journey.

What are your rituals before a performance? I have not generally been a “superstitious” singer, however I have learned over the years that there are certain things I need to do prior to a performance like ensure I am hydrated and rested.

What is your favourite opera? Carmen! This is my dream role… she is a woman who embraces life, is strong and yet vulnerable and sensuous. The duet between Carmen and Escamillo in Act IV (“Si je t’aime…) is one of my favourite musical moments.

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage? I played the Mother (a portrait that comes to life) in a production of Tales of Hoffman a number of years ago. I was preset in a black box elevated about 16 feet in the air. I had to sit in the dark for 45 minutes not uttering a sound until my entrance onto a very small platform through hundreds of plastic straps to which my
picture was projected on while I waited. It was nerve-wracking in every moment!

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you? Up until recently I worked as a computer programmer and project manager for a global technology firm.

Coffee or Tea? Coffee hands down!!! Double Americano with room for milk!

[ed note: Natalie didn't have a joke for us, so in honour of her, we offer this joke about altos...]
How many altos does it take to screw in a lightbulb?
Two. One to do it, and one to ask "Isn't that a little high for you?"

Singer Spotlight - Grant Wardlow

2010-08-10T16:26:00.000-07:00

Name: Grant Wardlow

Voice Type: Tenor
Role: Dorothy (Stepsister)
Hometown: Vernon, B.C.

Is this your first time performing with DD? No, I performed the role of Lord Tolloller in last summer's hugely successful production of Iolanthe!

Favourite thing about the role you are playing? My shoes! And having the freedom to do some pretty nasty things on stage.

Where did you find inspiration for this role? Saturday Night Live...and my sisters!

Favourite part of this opera? Definitely the a cappella chorus...I never tire of singing it!

What are your rituals before a performance? I never like to eat a big meal before performing and I always make sure I am well hydrated and warmed up. I always do a walk through of my blocking and before any entrance I check to make certain my fly is done up!

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage? I was once appeared naked on stage as part of a production of Le Nozze di Figaro.

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage? This show...performing in heels! After a three hour rehearsal, my feet are done!

Favourite role you've ever played? Nemorino in L'elisir d'amore.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically? It's a toss up between golf and photography.

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you? Not right now, which is good for my golf game but not for my wallet!

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you? My camera, iPhone and golf clubs (with at least a dozen Pro V1 balls)!

Tell us a joke.
How can you tell there's a tenor at the door?
He can't find the key and doesn't know when to come in!

Singer Spotlight - Lisa-Dawn Kilthau

2010-08-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

Name: Lisa-Dawn Nelsina Kilthau
Voice Type: Mezzo-Soprano
Role: Cinderella
Hometown: Langley

Is this your first time performing with DD? Yes

Favourite thing about the role you are playing? In addition to having some of the most gorgeous music in the opera, it is the epitome of the childhood fairytale dream. I think every little girl believes herself to be the as-yet-undiscovered princess.

Where did you find inspiration for this role? I loved the story of Cinderella as a child. I wore out the Disney movie by watching it so many times; I could probably still quote you the entire thing word for word. I grew up helping out around the house with chores. The first time I was asked to clean the bathroom as a child, I cried. Princesses could cook and sweep and feed the birds, but they shouldn't have to do the dirty work...

Favourite part of this opera? There are so many beautiful bits! The duets with Prince Charming and the Father are lovely; I think Massenet was at his best when working with two voices. But my favorite parts are when you meet Cinderella alone; her personality and vulnerability really come through in the music.

What are your rituals before a performance? I make sure I have a good sleep the night before, and do a gentle yoga routine to warm up. I like a lot of quiet time before a show; I will go in early and walk through the role alone on set. I prefer being at the theater very early to get into the right head-space.

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage? My first experience with opera was being in the chorus of The Magic Flute. I was one of the magical beasts that threaten Tamino before he tames them by playing his flute. Specifically, I was a giant furry hound-dog, crawling around on hands and knees. I was instructed to lift my leg and shake it when Tamino played his calming melody.

Favorite role you've ever played? I really enjoyed playing the mother in Hansel and Gretel; it was just such a fun, high-energy show to be a part of. The audience loved it, and getting good energy back is such a thrill as a performer.

What is your favorite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically? I love to dance; I have done many different forms, and right now am really into Blues Dancing. Another favorite is West Coast Swing.

A lot of singers have day jobs. Do you? Yes. I work as a tailor. I have always enjoyed sewing, and while pursuing my opera studies at UBC, I was hired to do the costumes for the UBC Opera department. I love the creativity that comes into designing a costume that will add to the performer's portrayal of their character. For the costumes for this production of Cinderella, I am collaborating with Dora, who plays Naomie.

Coffee or Tea? Tea! I love coffee as a dessert drink, but I am a big tea drinker. I will often finish off a pot by myself. But it has to be a tea you can put milk in.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing? I really enjoy 2-D visual arts; drawing, painting, pointillism etc. I wish I had more time to pursue it!

You're trapped on a deserted island. What three luxury items do you hope you have with you? A supply of good quality dark chocolate. A comfortable bed. And lots of books!

Cinderella Shaping Up!

2010-07-30T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hi Fellow DragonDivas,

So I just have to say that I snuck into a rehearsal last week to get a peak at the upcoming performances of Cinderella and the cast sounds truely amazing. You guys are all going to Rock the House. I also think that we should give a big shout out to John and Jeanine for all of their hardwork on this production. Keep up the good work everyone and I can't wait to see the rest of the show :)

Ed Moran
Board Member

P.S. I must say I am a little sad not to be in the show this summer for the first time in a while. You guys are all awesome!

The moment has come...

2010-07-29T09:20:00.001-07:00

Last night at rehearsal we staged the last bit of the show. Unfortunately due to time restraints we hardly rehearsed this section of the opera musically at all. The first run through was a bit rough. I was pleasantly surprised by the progress that the cast made in the short couple of hours we worked on the scene.

The moment mentioned above is the moment when I realize that the show is going to be ok, and I catch a glimpse of the potential it has to become something magnificent. This is one amazing group of individuals. Combine that with the exquisite music of Massenet, and we have got quite a show on our hands.

And let's talk about the costumers. So far we have seen several pieces. Most recently, a tunic for the Herald to wear. I have to say, this is some very very fine work. Dora Brooks and Lisa-Dawn Kilthau are extremely skilled costumers as well as being very fine singers. The cast is going to look amazing.

And on another front, a work colleague of mine, Koko Mongeot and her husband Jesee own a jewelry design company. Koko very generously has offered to create some unique pieces for Cinderella to wear in the ball scene. The best part is that the audience members will have the opportunity to purchase the pieces after the show is finished! So, if you've always wanted to dress like Cinderella in real life, here's your chance! Check out their website at www.izzyandbuds.com.

John Arsenault
Music Director and Happy Producer!