Opera Audition Information
What are the operas that are being performed this year?
Nothing spells disaster like a snazzy restaurant's Grand Opening with a less than stellar staff. In spite of a drunk waiter, a hoity-toity host, ditzy and bored staff, a new chef with a passion for food poisoning, and a celebrity couple rumored to be making an appearance, the new restaurant may survive the night . . .just. Beyond the Grand Opening, who knows what its fate will be. It will either become the next hottest spot or the next deadest duck in town.
Like a perfect Apple Pie crust, we will seamlessly weave together scenes from two Baroque operas: Henry Purcell's "Fairy Queen" (based upon Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream") and John Blow's "Venus and Adonis". College Choir will occasionally pop into the action. We also expect guest appearances from the Kazoo Choir and others. This'll be one for the books!
Come one and all to audition! The more the merrier and the more hilarious!
When are the opera performances?
The Operas will be performed on Friday January 17th, 7 p.m. and Sunday January 19th, 7 p.m. at Porter Theater on Westmont Campus
Should I audition for the opera even though I've had limited vocal experience?
Absolutely! Professors Colin and Christina Ramsey will be the opera vocal coaches. They are happy to help you with your audition. Please reach out to them directly.
When are opera auditions?
Opera auditions will be held on Monday Sept 30th from 6-9 p.m.
Where are opera auditions?
Auditions will be held in Dr. Ruth Lin's Office (Music Building, Room 201)
How do I sign up for an audition?
Please click the "Schedule an Audition" button below.
What should I prepare for the auditions?
Please prepare the excerpts linked below, for your voice part from both operas for the audition. Along with the pdf of the excerpt, there are also recordings of the vocal parts and the accompaniment. Since the excerpts are not long or difficult, the faculty would prefer that you sing 2 excerpts for the audition, but would accept 1 excerpt as well!
Audition Excerpts Opera Recording Excerpts
What if I am not sure if I want to audition for opera, but I am curious about what it is and would love to find out more.
There are also roles with minimal singing. If you are ever curious about how an opera comes together and want to be a part of the fun, please come join us! You are welcome to audition with an art song, an aria, or any song that you currently have prepared.
Lastly!
Calling all dramatic students!!! Your innovative ideas and snazzy skills are needed for crewing the fantastic 2024 Spring Opera. Available jobs include: Stage Manager, Costume Manager, Prop Manager, Set Overseer, Dramaturge (if you don't know what this is, look it up. It may be the coolest job in theater!), Lighting Assistant, and Crew, among a myriad of other exciting positions. Email the Stage Director, Christina Jensen, christina.joan.jensen@gmail.com, with your interest and desired position. We will meet sometime in late October to create our plan of action for the Spring. Prepare yourself for a show of modern marvels and futuristic fun!
When is Opera Boot Camp?
Opera Boot Camp will start on Thursday January 2nd in the afternoon. More details to come after auditions.
Please email Dr. Lin (rlin@westmont.edu) if you have any questions.