'CARRY NATION'
Stars discuss opera
By Cheryl Hentsch
The voices of four Metropolitan and New York City Center Opera stars spark the performances of the new opera "Carry Nation." The featured artists are Beverly Wolff, Patricia Brooks, John Reardon and Kenneth Smith.
Student rehearsals began early in March, but the professional leads did not come to Lawrence until a few weeks ago. Miss Wolff, who plays Carry, arrived first to begin work with librettist Douglas Moore and cast members. Smith, as chairman of the KU Voice Department, has taken an active interest in the production throughout the year.
MISS BROOKS and Reardon, along with Miss Wolff, live at the Eldridge Hotel during the Lawrence run; and although rehearsal schedules keep them busy, they have had time to walk up the Hill from the hotel to Murphy Hall.
"And I thought there were steep hills in New York," quipped Reardon. Rehearsals for the production are concentrated in the evening between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. when students are not in classes. During the day, the professionals rehearse individually and discuss technical aspects of
Beverly Wolff
production with Robert Baustian,
director of the KU orchestra, and
with Lewin Goff, director of
"Carry."
John Reardon
"All three artists agree that rehearsing a play at KU is not as strenuous as preparing for an opera in New York. Professional companies frequently practice six hours a day in addition to costume fittings.
"IN OUR SPARE time at KU, we watch the soap operas and game programs on the television—what's the name of that program—Search for (?)," smiled Miss Brooks.
Because they have been at KU only a few weeks, the stars have
not formed many definite opinions about the campus or KU students. However, Reardon noted, "I thought I was not too far removed from the life and activities of college students, until I came to college, that is—they're so young looking."
Working on an opera which has never been presented requires few changes in routine or alterations in attitude for these experienced artists. "Every play demands the best performance possible—for the audience, the composer, as well as for the performers." Reardon said.
"And for 'Carry Nation' we especially want to do our best, to please Moore and William Jayme who have provided such expressive music for us to sing," added Miss Wolff.
CONCERNING HER portrayal of Carry, Ms. Wolf explained she followed the tone set by the music and stage directions. Characterizations in opera are expressed through the music.
Each artist agrees with Moore that "Carry" is an opera which mid-western audiences will enjoy. "Carry Nation' has a realistic quality that effectively combines with intense drama," said Reardon speaking for the other stars.
In an earlier interview this spring, Moore noted young professional talent interjects enthusiasm and provides incentive for student players. In the intervening months, time has verified his statement. Cast members, stage crewmen and costume workers comment the professional stars are extremely easy to work with and deeply interested in each performer and every facet of the opera.
"At first I thought they might be distant and difficult to get to know," said Dianne Tudor, Shawnee Mission freshman and chorus member, "but they are fun to work with. It's really been a worthwhile experience."
"THE PROFESSIONALS are so professional that they don't need to put on airs or act superior." added Mike Riley, Columbus senior and student lead playing Carry's father.
During their careers, each performer has worked in other operas with his co-stars. After the
Patricia Brooks
KU performances of "Carry," they will again go their separate ways. Miss Wolff will go to San Francisco to play "Carry"; the others have singing engagements across the country.
"In this business," said Reeddon, "I never knew where I'll be or what I'll be doing more than two or three engagements away. My agent handles my schedule. It's like taking your laundry to the automate one day and going to the grocery store the next—after more than a few days, who knows what you'll be doing."
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