Okay, let’s transfer to the blokes. Oh, did I say that actor Edmund was a pants position acted by Karina Hilleard. Ms. Hilleard is an achieved actress, having appeared with Washington Nationwide Opera and Shakespeare Theatre Firm. She auditioned for the position of Jane, however then was Dr. Lind’s alternative for Edmund after actor Justin Meyer, an SOT veteran, expressed an curiosity in enjoying Adam. Ms. Hilleard carried out nicely and was convincing in her position displaying each curiosity in Jane as a human connection and repulsion from Jane in her disturbing habits. Their comedic however edgy scenes collectively have been a spotlight. On reflection, I believe having this be a pants position distracts a wee bit from the main focus of the play although maybe provides to the absurd comedic component (Word: my spouse vehemently disagrees there was a problem in making this a pants position; I attempted to clarify that…oh, you’ve heard sufficient). Actor/Singer Justin Meyer successfully and confidently performed Adam as a likable teen, then faculty scholar, as a part of Jane’s hallucinations. However ultimately, we see him in another way as his interactions with Ophelia develop worrisome. A dramatic highpoint was Jane and his try at reconciliation, leading to her admitting her true emotions. Mr. Meyer carried out impressively in a variety of characters in two earlier SOT productions that I’ve seen. Nicely carried out, all!
Shakespeare Opera Theatre’s Drowning Ophelia entertained and communicated its message affectingly. When the play was over, a brief speak again with the actor/singers and workers ensued. As I checked out this group, I felt that I had obtained a present from all concerned.
The Fan Expertise: Performances of Shakespeare Opera Theatre’s Drowning Ophelia have been scheduled for April 4, 5 (2), 6, 7, 9, 11, 12 (2) on the St. Thomas Episcopal Church in McLean. A ‘pay what you’ll’ choice is obtainable for Friday performances; see this hyperlink for tickets. The efficiency lasted about an hour, and the solid and workers led by Dr. Lind returned after the ultimate applause for an roughly 20-minute fascinating dialogue with attendees that selected to stay. Further info is obtainable within the on-line program ebook. Free parking is obtainable.
From Dr. Lind’s textual content in this system ebook for Drowning Ophelia: With April being Home Abuse Consciousness month, it gave the chance for visibility I hoped to amplify with this play. Abuse doesn’t at all times include a shout, however most frequently with a whisper. It builds imperceptibly over time, and the victims turn into conditioned to their abuse just like the proverbial frog within the slowly boiling pot of water. Recovering from such extended trauma causes lifelong distrust of 1’s personal judgement, which is likely one of the most troublesome psychological hurdles to beat. PTSD, ADHD and Dissociative problems usually stem from the cognitive dissonance of putting up with abuse from somebody who’s a member of the family and who in any other case does love and look after you.
Shakespeare Opera Theatre will return to its common style with its manufacturing of s Romeo and Juliet on July 11, 12, 13, 14 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church and July 18, 19, 20 at Grace Episcopal Church. This manufacturing shall be a mixture of Charles Guonod’s eponymous opera and Shakespeare’s extra well-known play. Dr. Lind says it’s going to speken in Shakespeare’s english and sung in Guonod’s french. Whereas the 2025-2026 season has not been formally introduced as but, we are able to stay up for Hansel and Gretel, Susannah, and Tartuffe. Dr. Lind reviews that 2026 shall be all American music for the 250th anniversary of the beginning of the nation. .
SOT’s performances have extra of a celebration environment relatively than the church service environment of our main opera halls. I’ve discovered little pretense with SOT; they readily personal their limitations and nonetheless handle to interact us totally. Gown is “as you prefer it” and seating is at tables. Snacks and drinks are provided on the market which could be consumed earlier than, throughout, or after performances. Attendance by kids is welcomed, although for Drowning Ophelia solely ages 11 and up, parental discretion suggested. The play contains suggestive habits however nothing extra overt than a kiss.
This report, as is common, has benefited immensely from my spouse Debra serving as copy editor. My spouse writes a journey weblog referred to as fiammatravels.com for which I function the copy editor.
