Opening Night!

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.

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!

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

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

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

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

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!

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...

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!

Singer Spotlight - Andrzej Jeziorski

I love learning new things about the people we work with every day - are they ever interesting people! First up in our new series "Singer Spotlight", Prince Charming himself!

Name: Andrzej Jeziorski
Voice Type: Tenor
Role: Prince Charming
Hometown: Vancouver

Is this your first time performing with DD? No. My first time was as a chorus member in 'Elixir of Love' two years ago.

Favourite thing about the role you are playing? The shameless romanticism of it. There is nothing more important in Prince Charming's life than finding the one person that can make him happy. He'll stop at nothing to make his dream a reality, or die trying.

Where did you find inspiration for this role? In my memories of being a teenager, when it seemed like nothing was more important than finding my one true love.

Favourite part of this opera? The second duet with Cinderella, when we come to plead for help from the Fairy Godmother.

What is your favourite opera? Tchaikovsky's 'Eugene Onegin'.

Ever been asked to do something strange onstage? Not unless you count cracking whips over the heads of harem girls.

What's the most difficult thing you've done onstage? Probably Albert's drunk scene in Britten's 'Albert Herring'. I remember having to stagger, roll around on the floor, fiddle with matches and let my pants fall down, all while counting complex rhythms furiously in my head. Incidentally, that's also one of my fondest performing memories.

What is your favourite activity that has nothing to do with singing classically? Writing and recording rock songs.

A lot of singers have day jobs…do you? Indeed. I'm the editor of an aerospace trade magazine called 'Asian Aviation', published out of Singapore. I've been a reporter and editor since 1992.

Do you have a secret talent other than singing? I have a second-degree black belt in karate, which I earned while living in Singapore.

Tell us a joke.
"I say, I say, I say: what is the secret of great comedy?"
"I don't know, what is the secret of gr..."
"Timing."

Any upcoming performances you want to share? In the coming season of the Vancouver Opera, I shall be singing in the chorus of 'Lillian Alling' and 'La Traviata'.

Meant to be.

You know how sometimes you get a new sweater, and it quickly becomes your favourite sweater because it fits perfectly and feels as if it was made just for you? Well after the last few weeks of rehearsal, I am starting to think that there are a couple of singers in our cast who have found their "sweater role" in this opera. When they open their mouths to sing, I get instant shivers and I smile uncontrollably and John and I give knowing looks of approval over his baton. I love moments like that, and I am so excited that we get to share them with you in LESS THAN A MONTH!

I opened the stage door last night as we were running a duet with Cinderella and the Prince. People who have never seen an opera (nor did they, I suspect, ever plan on it) were drawn in by the sounds of Massenet. I think we have a few more operatic recruits!

Jeanine

We have walls!

Well, our fabulous Stage Manager Tony, his ASM Wayne, and John were hard at work yesterday afternoon erecting the walls to the Cinderella set. It starts to feel real when you aren't just rehearsing in an empty box any more. Of course, there is still a mountain of construction and painting to do, but this is the first step! They even managed to use a portion of our set from last summer that had only partially been painted over...ah, memories.

This week of rehearsals has been great - there are moments I was doubled over in laughter, and there were moments where the whole room went still and I got goosebumps. It truly will be a wild ride of a show. Tickets are on sale now, just incase you were wondering...call the Massey Ticket Centre at 604-521-5050.

Cheers,
Jeanine
Artistic Director

One week in....

Well we are one week into our staging rehearsals, and so far, so good. We are so pleased to see that our cast is so well prepared. Everyone is pretty much fully off book, and we've been able to breeze through the scheduled material each night.

Ms. Fynn is having her usual strokes of genius. This is going to be a beautiful production. The set drawings are amazing, and soon I'll be spending my free time in the theatre with a lot of wood and drills...

I've decided that I'm going to steal an idea from Vancouver Opera, and post mini-interviews with our cast members on our blog, so stay tuned to hear interesting facts about our cast!

John Arsenault
Music Director

We're off to the races!

Music rehearsals are now complete for Massenet's Cinderella. We've just begun staging rehearsals and as usual, Director Jeanine Fynn is already creaing a beautiful picture for this show. We've staged one of the Fairy Godmother's arias, and the opening scene for the Stepmother and Stepsisters.

Please follow us on our journey!

John Arsenault
Music Director

We're auditioning!

DragonDiva Operatic Theatre is holding auditions for all principal roles, supporting roles, and chorus for our upcoming production of:

Jules Massenet’s
Cendrillon
(Cinderella)

Performances August 20 – 29, 2010 at Bernie Legge Theatre, New Westminster.
Rehearsals begin June 14 (Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 7pm to 10pm).
AVAILABILITY FOR ALL REHEARSALS IS MANDATORY.

We are auditioning for the following roles:

LEAD ROLES
Cinderella Soprano or Mezzo Soprano
Stepmother Contralto or Mezzo Soprano
Prince Charming Mezzo Soprano or Tenor
Fairy Godmother Soprano (coloratura)
Naomi (Stepsister) Soprano
Dorothy (Stepsister) Soprano, Mezzo Soprano or Tenor
Pandolfe (father) Bass Baritone

SUPPORTING ROLES / CHORUS
The King Baritone
Dean Tenor
Superintendant Baritone
First Minister Bass
6 Spirits Mezzo Soprano (2) and Soprano (4)

AUDITION REQUIREMENTS
Lead Roles – three operatic arias of your choice, with at least one in English.
Supporting Roles and Chorus – Two selections from the opera, operetta/light opera or musical theatre repertoire of your choice, with at least one in English

AUDITION INFORMATION
Location: Douglas College, New Westminster Campus
Date: Saturday, March 20th, 2010
Time: Auditions will be booked from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM
*This is a Non-Equity production

To request an audition time, please contact us at:
auditions@dragondiva.org (preferred) or 778-237-6194