Today is day 3 in Salzburg... and I'm starting to get a bit restless. I suppose I've been spoiled by trips to attraction-heavy cities like Paris and London. In Salzburg, the main attraction is the ambience of the city itself. Oh, there are a number of small- to medium-level sights to see: the fort, the Residenz, St. Peter's... but the best thing is just to walk around the old city. The look and feel of this part of town are very well preserved - it's almost a midieval ambience. But the attractions aren't on the level of, say, the Louvre or the British National Gallery. So I've seen them all, and had a wonderful time. But I've seen everything, and I'm just restless in a small town. *ducks*
I saw the dress rehearsals for Fledermaus, and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! I can only really speak for Bryn's cast (there are three), but the show is entertaining, funny, and has some very solid singing. Tenor William Lewis, who runs the program, steals the show as Eisenstein. This is only to be expected however; Lewis spent his career double-cast with the likes of Pavarotti and Corelli. His singing is a kind not seen in American Opera anymore. His co-stars are also impressive however, in a completely different way.
(disclaimer: Bryn is my wonderful wife, and Corinne is her best friend. I swear I'm not biased, though)
Dramatic Coloratura Corinne Schaeffer is simply extraordinary as Adele. Her sound is rich and full, and she navigates the role perfectly. The color in her voice is warm, and enormous given her small stature. I found myself waiting for her next entrance with anticipation. Bryn of course, sings the shit out of Rosalinda. This is a role that is well worked into her body, and it shows. Though this Rosalinda is not as sympathetic a character as the last one I heard her sing, her charm and bright voice make her a joy to watch. (and to take home afterwards)
Originally this post was longer, but I had to cut it short for time. Next post: Diana Damrau, Festival season in Salzburg and
