Monday, March 24, 2008

"Can I try your shoes on?"


"A girl's night at the opera"

This was one of the most special events I've experienced backstage at a theater: Alison and her family made an 8 hour trip to see the "Barber of Seville" in Chicago, because 6-yr old Alison has been bit by the Opera Bug (as has her whole family, if I'm not mistaken!) It was a true joy to watch her take in everything that the theater has to offer, and an even BIGGER joy to watch her nearly pass out of embarrassment describing her favorite part of the show afterwards: "the part when Figaro sticks his hand down his underwear and sings the high note!" I guess you had to be there.....

Welcome to the wonderful world of opera, Alison!

12 comments:

Susan said...

Ha ha that was one of my favorite parts too.

Wow I didn't realize the heels were so high on those gorgeous red shoes!

Renee said...

Well, that's thoroughly adorable. And those shoes! Killer.

Chicago Usher said...

She's adorable - and a true zapatos (shoe) lover! (I would have done exactly as she did, if I'd had the nerve!)

It's uncanny - I got asked twice, and last Saturday night was the second time, by couples who wanted to know how to get backstage to see you because they were spending time with you that weekend. But Saturday night's couple didn't have this sweetheart with them. I absolutely ADORE seeing the little ones coming into the House - they are our future!

A quick technical lens question - What one(s) did you begin with? I've been shooting with a basic Canon PowerShot someone gave me, and it's time to move up. I know I want a telephoto besides a basic - any recommendations? Yes... I'm also considering a Rebel!

Thank you - thank you - thank you for everything you are ! ! ! And that includes working yesterday. What better way to celebrate the continuity and freedom of a life in music?!

(Hope you're doing some Spanish!)

Yankeediva said...

Ah! UPGRADING THE CAMERA! I love it! You can get by with 2 lenses to start - one being the kit lens which can easily be an every day lens, BUT, it's not the BEST lens out there - so it may be one that you will want to upgrade later on. The best advice I got was to purchase a 50 mm fixed portrait lens (meaning no zoom options!) BUT it's a fast lens (1.8) and gives beautiful photos - and it will cost between $70-90, which for a decent lens is really good. GOOD LUCK!!!

Ann said...

"the part when Figaro sticks his hand down his underwear and sings the high note!"

That's one way of getting a high note, I suppose! Hah!

This picture is fabulous as well as the story!

Ann said...

"the part when Figaro sticks his hand down his underwear and sings the high note!"

That's one way of getting a high note, I suppose! Hah!

This picture is fabulous as well as the story!

jennmac said...

Joyce...I don't even know what to say. Thank you does not cover it!

We had a fantastic time with you. The girls are still smiling!

Thank you for sharing you talent, spirit and time with us!

Susan said...

Joyce, All About Opera had a link today to an article about Alison and her visit with you. Did you see it? Here's the link: http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/chi-0324operamar24,1,2402908.story

~Susan

Chicago Usher said...

Thank you, Susan, for that link – the article is priceless!

And thank you, Joyce, for being “such a nice girl!” I’m VERY grateful for your lens advice, and for suggesting we don’t need to dumb down opera for children!

paul24 said...

I have never expected a young lady to notice something like that! ;-) My 9 yo daughter is an opera fan too and I was really moved while we were watching Met Barbiere with you as Rosina and Peter Mattei as Figaro. She said: "Figaro doesn`t help at all. He`s attracted to Rosina!". Hmm, children`s world seems to be more awesome than I have ever expected. By the way, we are still waiting for you in Vienna. Noone can sing like you

paul24 said...

Oh, I forgot to ask if you were planning to sing Isabela (L`Italiana in Algeri)? You would be gorgeous in this role with your incredible voice and thespian talents to create real women. What a pleasure to see you on the stage in every role however!
With all our best (from my daughter Alexandra too :-)

Yankeediva said...

Thanks, everyone! Another chapter closes, and it's on to the next thing! And Paul - I did sing Isabella once in Israel (In 2000!) and really enjoyed it - I'd be happy to revisit her some day!

CHEERS, all!