AboutPamela Thomas Expertise Questions on Opera performance, repertoire, vocal technique, acting for opera. I have some 20 years experience in opera in both leading roles and chorus. I have sung with New York City Opera since 1981. I have studied voice in NYC for over 20 years and have also taught technique and coached singers in acting.
Question Hi,
I'm a theatre student currently doing a research paper for my singing class. My question is, How important is acting for an opera singer when performing a role? What does your preparation to get into character consist of? Do you analyze every single "scene" of the opera dramatically as well as musically? I would like to know the process of learning a role in the opera world. I know that musically you analyze every single aspect of the musical score, but I want to know how much acting goes into all of this. Thanks.
Gabriella Rodriguez. (Madrid, Spain).
Answer Hi Gabriella,
Yes, absolutely, acting is so important in opera - especially now that so many operas are being filmed (the Met is sending their performances to movie theatres). So the days of just being able to stand and sing are over.
The preparation (at least for me and the good actors I know) is essentially the same as for a "straight" plays.
Here are some things I do:
1. Identify my character's life need (or what does the character want by the end of the opera)
2. Identify my character's scene needs - what does the character want in each scene. And, yes, you do analyze each scene both dramatically and musically.
3. Identify or think about various actions to accomplish these needs.
4. Think about the through-line of the opera (this is really the director's job).
5. Once you know what the director wants - then you discuss with her and adjust if needed.
6. This, of course, is on top of preparing the music; learning the role, feeling comfortable in the language, being technically secure, working with the conductor, etc.
7. Of course you also need to relate to your fellow singers.
A few things that are different opera vs. play: you cannot completely immerse yourself into the character because you have to be aware of the conductor and the music - you do as much as you can. Also, clearly, the actions you choose can be extended because of the music... in a play if you want to put someone down you can just do it on the line.. in opera the line might be longer because of the music - but you still need to continue your action. So things might be extended.
You might search the net for "acting in opera" and see what comes up. There are many wonderful acting teachers who are working in opera now. Some are singers, some directors.
I hope this helps you out. By the way, I studied acting in an acting, directing and writing workshop - everything I learned there applies to my singing...
