The Santa Clarita gathering of the Los Angeles Opera League had their first meeting of the 2011-2012 opera season. Participants enjoyed a potluck dinner with a Russian food theme to commemorate Tchaikovsky, the composer of the first opera – Eugene Onegin – which is based on Pushkin’s novel of the same name.
Anne Russell Sullivan, a former Metropolitan Opera singer and Tchaikovsky authority, presented clips from Ralph Finnes movie Eugene Onegin and scenes from various performances of the opera. An animated discussion followed. Ella Larson, a local member from Russia, brought her private collection of beautifully painted miniatures. Other members brought books and literature illustrating the Russian culture, art, and history. In September, Bob Bernard, Mozart authority, presented background and insight into Mozart’s opera Cosi fan Tutti.
Our local opera league was formed three years ago by Dr. Kathy Crandall, who is now the vice president of the Opera League of Los Angeles (OLLA). Dr. Crandall and three other OLLA Board members participated in our local meeting, bringing us news not only of our Los Angeles Opera 2011-2012 season, but of opera happenings throughout the area, including opera at the movies. Dr. Kimberlyn Jones, Director of Vocal Studies and Opera at Masters College keeps us informed of their opera events.
Among the planned activities of our local group, are getting together to see operas at local movie theatres, and attend seminars presented by the L.A. Opera prior to the opening of each opera. Further, they attend dress rehearsals, “Pre-Opera” lectures and performances at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. We also provide dress rehearsal dinners for the performers, as it would be difficult for them to find local food while in makeup and costume.
Before each opera “opens,” we have our regional gatherings here in Santa Clarita. Our next local opera gathering will be held October 24, at 7 p.m. The opera will be the passionate Romeo and Juliet composed by Charles Gounod, based on Shakespeare’s play. Our speaker will be Dorothy Wait of the Los Angeles Opera Speakers Bureau.
We welcome new members. If you have any questions, please call Ann Anderson at 661-259-9619.