Prelude to Performance - still time to catch it!

Another one of our fantastically supportive members, Meche Kroop, is always on the ball and reminds us that in New York City we don't have to be starved of opera during the sweltering heat of July.

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The generosity of Martina Arroyo's Foundation and her "Prelude to Performance" has made it possible for opera-starved New Yorkers to have some significant pleasure in the dry month of July. The young people she fosters did an excellent job with both programs at Hunter College this weekend; if you hurry you can still catch a performance or two.

A charming double-bill of a rarely performed Donizetti opera "Rita" and the well-know "Gianni Schicchi" of Puccini yielded abundant laughter as these young artists in the early stages of their careers gave their all to get across the comic style, perfect for summer listening. I will not give credit to any one singer since the cast changes at every performance. Still, let it be said that all these young stars-in-the-making shone brightly. Props to Matthew Lata for his clever stage direction and to Charles Caine for the dazzling costumes. Scenery was simple but effective.

And what about the delightful "Die Zauberflote"? Scenery was confined to some drapes and a bench but the fine costumes, again by Charles Caine, lent a major degree of authenticity, as did the lighting by Brian Barnett. The ensemble worked well together and the magic came across. The three ladies harmonized beautifully and the Papageno (well, I will have to credit one singer) of Scott Lindroth brought down the house with his creamy baritone and comic presence.

So, if you are hungry or thirsty for opera, get yourself to Hunter College. You will leave sated, laughing and happy!