Met Opera Party

When you are a creative type, it is always a good idea to go out and meet talented people to get inspired for your own work. Here are some photos from a great opera party we attended last night at 92nd and Central Park West. Last night was truly great fun and great stimulus.

Part of programming at the Met Opera, the party featured soprano Kathleen Kim singing arias from the comic opera La Fille du Regiment, which premiers at the Met Opera stage April 21, 2008! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3uhUgEbvqk She was accompanied by pianist Laura Poe, a Met Lindemann Young Artist. From her small stature, she projected dynamically expressive and often humorous interpretations of arias. It was also a great treat to hear commentator William Berger (Met radio broadcast producer and author of Verdi With A Vengeance, among other opera books) speak so passionately and approachably about the themes and structure of the comic opera. Kathleen will understudy Marie's role in La Fille for Natalie Dessay- we are looking forward to seeing her on stage as she recently got rave reviews for her debut performance at the Met this past October 2007 as Barbarina in Le Nozze de Figaro.

The event was very relaxed and it was truly special to hear opera in such an intimate setting. William mentioned that bel canto (Italian for beautiful singing) was originally meant for a very small audience, as it is a style that emphasizes detailed and florid ornamentation.

Live music performed by dedicated musicians is such an enthralling experience. Kathleen certainly embodied the essence of the bel canto style with her virtuosity and play. Her voice was a reminder of how one person's passion can be so powerful. Inspiring!

Below Photos)
Kathleen and Laura
William, Laura, and Kathleen
Candid of friends