A Haunting Tale...

My first day as one of the new interns here at the Detroit Opera House was even better than I anticipated. My name is Wendy German. I am an English major as well as pursuing my Arts Management Certificate at the University of Windsor. I will be seeking a career in the theatre/entertainment industry upon completion of my degree. First up was a grand tour of the beautifully restored Opera House. There are so many amazing spaces, lounges, rehearsal halls, staircases and of course the spectacular stage. There was even a secret passage, slightly unnerving when the current show is about a Phantom haunting an Opera House!

Since I have only seen the movie, I am thrilled to be seeing Phantom of the Opera, the musical, for the fist time on stage. A real connection grows between the actors and audience during live theatre so I am expecting to be both mesmerized and enchanted! In anticipation I have been looking up lyrics, and listening to the music. I confess I even changed my screensaver to a picture of Christine and the Phantom. Here are some particulars that might interest you about the touring production that opened here last night. The chandelier is 1,000 pounds (it is massive, I went and peeked) and has 35,000 beads and 50-radio controlled lights. There are 165 wigs used to compliment the 230 costumes for the show. I’ll post again once I have seen the production and let you know what I think. I hope you get a chance to see for the first time, or indulge again in the haunting tale of seduction and despair.

Fond Memories at MOT...

My 5th floor view of Comerica Park is going to be missed when I leave today. My co-workers and this incredible building will both be missed as well. Today is my last day interning in the Communications department at MOT, and though I’m excited to return to school, I’d like to savor this summer experience.

Over the past two months, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Detroit Opera House. As the Public Relations and Marketing Intern, I was able to work on press and media kits, explore the marketing aspects of Twitter, and improve my communication skills. Most of all, I was able to experience the day-to-day operations of an opera house. But let’s not forget my exposure to the more lavish side – BravoBravo! 2009 was definitely the highlight of my summer!

As I say goodbye to the building, I know this isn’t my last time to set foot in the Detroit Opera House. Just today, I was recorded singing “Vedrai, carino” (Don Giovanni) for a $1 million dollar Michigan arts grant that MOT will be competing for in August. The competition for the grant relies on Internet donations, so resources such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube will be used. The video of me singing was posted on YouTube - at least I can say I left my mark!

There are many people here at the Detroit Opera House that I would like to thank. First and foremost, Ms. Rebekah Johnson and Mr. Michael Hauser for all of their guidance. Mr. John Grigaitis for taking endless pictures for my blog, and keeping the department on their toes with his witty humor. Ms. Kathi Kucharski for letting me work / attend BravoBravo! 2009, which will remain the most memorable party yet. And of course, I cannot forget Dr. David DiChiera, who has made Michigan Opera Theatre what it is today, and ensures what it will be in the future.

A little bittersweet, but I have had a wonderful experience interning here. Classes start up again at UNC in August, so that’s where I’ll be! And who knows…maybe next time I step into a “role” at the Opera House, it will be a role on the stage – not behind the desk. =)

Welcome Aboard – LATOH Presents H.M.S. Pinafore

My mom and sister are both proud members of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society – and while I am not yet a member, I’ve always been a fan. So when I heard that the Learning at the Opera House (LATOH) Operetta Camp was performing H.M.S. Pinafore, I couldn’t have been more thrilled.

Pinafore, one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most famous works, is a comedic operetta that plays with love triangles and the separation of classes. Naturally, the captain’s lovely daughter falls in love with a sailor, sparking the initial romantic conflict. Will Josephine find true love with her sailor? Or will she be forced to marry the dreadful Sir Joseph Porter? Well, lucky for us, the LATOH Operetta Camp has been working hard, preparing for their upcoming performance. And one of the directors, Ms. Julie Smith, promises it to be one of the most “outstanding and remarkable groups” yet.

Ms. Smith, a doctoral candidate at Oakland University, says, “Kids come from all different areas, with all different talents. Every child is welcome regardless of ability.” Along with Ms. Smith, voice specialist Wendy Bloom guides the campers, providing them with exceptional vocal and theatrical training. And though the camp runs a tight schedule, Monday through Friday, 10am to 4pm, there is no doubt that the youth are enjoying themselves. In fact, let’s see what some of our Pinafore leads had to say:

Why did you decide to do the LATOH Operetta Camp?
“It’s different from being in shows at school; operetta is a whole different ball game from musical theater!” -Raquelle Wilson (Buttercup)

So how’s the show coming along?
“Blocking can get a little tricky, but it’s going to be a great show.” -Duncan Burns (Captain Corcoran)

Have you done LATOH before?
“Yes, this is my 4th year, I love it.” -Mitch Kosters (Dick Deadeye)

Why do you think LATOH is an important program?
“It’s important to introduce classical opera and its culture to today’s youth so traditions can continue.” -Nick Baker (Sir Joseph Porter).

Are you excited for the performance?
“I’m so excited for the show. It’s Friday July 24th, and my family and friends are all coming to see me.” -Madeline Thibault (Josephine)

How has your experience with LATOH influenced you?
“I’ve been performing with LATOH for 6 or 7 summers, and now I’m going to Bowling Green State University to study Vocal Performance.” -Sarah Buckley (Camp Intern)

I think Sarah Buckley is a perfect example of this program’s success. Learning at the Opera House not only provides premier training and performance opportunities for young adults, but also encourages the pursuit of a career in the arts. And with this encouragement, a young Josephine could be one step closer to finding her future role onstage at the Detroit Opera House.

LATOH Operetta Camp will perform H.M.S. Pinafore on Friday, July 24th, at 6pm. Tickets are $5 at the door

**See Slideshow above for rehearsal photos!!**

Center Stage: Dancers fill the Opera House with ABT Summer Intensive

The sounds of pattering feet, dressed in pointe shoes and ballet slippers, have filled the halls of the Opera House for the past two weeks. This is thanks to the American Ballet Theatre Summer Intensive, whose Detroit program has been hosted at the Detroit Opera House for 12 years now.

Being held in only five cities, ABT Artistic Director, Kevin McKenzie states, “The mission of ABT’s Summer Intensive is to cultivate a universal understanding of the art form at its highest level.” And a universal understanding it is; 130 of the most talented pre-professional dancers have come together for the four-week program. Their backgrounds range diversely from places such as Italy and Brazil, to our own Michigan, which is represented by 22 local dancers. Offered at four different levels, dancers often return year after year to gain elite experience and exposure.

The partnership between American Ballet Theatre, one of the world’s most prestigious dance companies, the Detroit Opera House and Wayne State University make the Detroit program possible. Throughout the program, young dancers are exposed to instructors from New York, Chicago, and Atlanta, to name a few, and are engaged in four classes a day. The mix of classes incorporates three in dance and one in lecture, discussing topics such as choreography, nutrition, and acting. The dancers shuffle from the Detroit Opera House to Wayne State University depending on the day and are housed in Wayne State dormitories. All of this leads up to a final showcase at the end of the program, which will be held on Friday, July 17th at 1pm and 4pm.

The final showcase is a performance you won’t want to miss. Ms. Samantha Shelton, a 13-year instructor with ABT Intensive, who also teaches at Wayne State University, Rochester School of Dance, and Spotlight Dance Works, gave me some insight into the performance: “Each level will perform two pieces; one is part of ABT repertoire, and the other is choreographed specifically for them.” Ms. Shelton went on to explain that the “violet” group will dance the famous “Paquita” ballet from ABT rep, in addition to an original piece set to Vivaldi, which she will choreograph. ABT national directors will fly in to watch the final performance, making it prime exposure for up and coming ballerinas.

As I observed a rehearsal of the “blue” group, one of the four levels of dancers, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the blockbuster hit, Center Stage. The film follows dancers in an ABT Intensive program, leading up to a final showcase that determines their professional careers. “Similar, but a bit less dramatic,” is how Ms. Shelton compared the Detroit program to that of the movie. But as I watched the girls in black leotards and pink tights, with their hair pulled back into perfect ballet knots, I kept thinking: the next prima ballerina could be perfecting her fuetes and piqué turns - right before my eyes.

The ABT Summer Intensive final performances will be held on Friday, July 17th, at 1pm and 4pm on the grand stage of the Detroit Opera House. Tickets are available at the door prior to the performance, and are $15 for adults and $10 for children under the age of 15.

BravoBravo! 2009 – A Spectacular Success

For the past decade, BravoBravo! has been named “Detroit’s Party of the Year.” This year’s 10th Anniversary was no exception. Bringing together Detroit’s best tastes, sounds, and most beautiful people, the party had glamour written all over it. As the new summer Intern, I had the privilege of attending, selling raffle tickets to VIP guests in the early evening.

Set in a Roaring 20s atmosphere, nearly 2000 flappers and zoot suiters attended in support of the Michigan Opera Theatre and Detroit Opera House. The economic recession was forgotten as the entire Opera House transformed into a lavish, 3-level indoor-outdoor extravaganza. A platform extended the stage, VIP cabanas and lounge areas lined the theatre, and ice sculptures and lights set the mood. Premiere entertainment filled the house, with the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies pleasing crowds and a DJ spinning tracks later in the night.

Tastes from the best restaurants and bars in the Detroit area surrounded the theatre and lined the first, second, and third floors. From sophisticated foie gras to cheesy fondue, there were tastes for everyone. Sanders even had a sundae stand on the second level, and the Jagermeister girls wandered all levels, distributing novelty items in their orange wigs. At every turn, there was a new taste, a new drink, and a fabulous new costume to admire.

Guests agreed that the party was a hit. Mr. Derek Strek, a lifestyle specialist, labeled BravoBravo! a “crucial party.” “Every year, it’s the place to be; beautiful people, great networking,” Strek said. Mr. David Parent agreed, stating, “I love it, it’s my 3rd year.” First timers were equally impressed. “Spectacular, amazing,” described Mr. Josh Suhre, a Wayne State University student who had waited 2 years to attend.

After a decade of partying in style for an excellent cause, BravoBravo! would not be possible without the incredible sponsors and supporters of Michigan Opera Theatre. A special “Bravo” is also in order for General Director Dr. David DiChiera and the MOT staff. By 12:30am, the lights came up at the Detroit Opera House, and people began to clear the theatre. But with young supporters like Mr. Suhre, we can be sure that the theatre will fill again, and BravoBravo! will continue to be a success. Here’s to next year!

Did you miss the festivities?
Check out photos from BravoBravo! 2009, provided by
Michigan Opera Theatre: http://www.michiganopera.org/slideshows/bravobravo2009_ss/index.html

Metromix:
http://detroit.metromix.com/events/photogallery/bravobravo-2009-at-the/1233034/content
After5Detroit.com:
http://after5detroit.com/a5/component/option,com_dcsgallery/task,view/cid,13451/Itemid,80/

Picturethisdetroit.com:
http://www.picturethisdetroit.smugmug.com/date/2009-06-5/2009-06-6#556458875_2mgkr
Motorcityblog.net:

http://motorcityblog.blogspot.com/2009/06/photos-bravobravo-by-paul-hitz.html

Fusicology:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ohbeatrice/sets/72157619438373141/
Six Degrees Magazine:
http://www.sixdegreespictures.com/gallery_det/
Street Vision

http://www.streetvision.com/gallery/BravoBravo_06_05_08/

CW 50:

http://cw50detroit.com/slideshows/20.1036202.html

A New Perspective at MOT

Hi, all! My name is Lauren Schultes, and I’m the new Public Relations and Marketing Intern here at the Detroit Opera House. Originally from Grosse Pointe Park, I graduated from Grosse Pointe South with four honor society cords in French, music, theatre, and academics. Around the Detroit area, I was last recognized for my work and dedication as Michigan’s Junior Miss 2007.
I now attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and am approaching my junior year. I am a UNC Kenan Music Scholar, on full scholarship for Vocal Performance. I was also just accepted into the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, bringing me closer to a double major in Music Performance and Business Administration. People are often surprised at the combination of opera and business, but my internship here is just one example of how the two work together!

On campus, I am an active member of Habitat for Humanity, the VP of Marketing for the Carolina Economics Club and Carolina Women in Business, and a member of Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity. I also continue to market a private business of my own, Belles Chansons (beautiful songs), where I am hired to sing for all occasions. While I miss the Carolina blue and southern hospitality, I am so excited to be back in the Detroit area and working with MOT for the summer.