Conservatorium Opera Students Singing up a Spectacular Storm!

LES DEUX ENFANTS

Parlez-vous Français? It’s time for some French opera at QCGU! The upcoming production of ‘l’Enfant Prodigue’ (The Prodigal Son, Debussy) and ‘l’Enfant et les Sortileges’ (The Child and The Spells, Ravel) is only days away! The Conservatorium Opera students have been working away at piecing together this extraordinary double bill production since May, and after their last general rehearsal today, the magic of the music and story have been well and truly captured for your viewing pleasure!

Internationally renowned director Stephen Barlow has returned to his motherland for his Australian debut, bringing with him the spellbinding talents of designer Yoki Lai. Lighting designer Nigel Levings (proud winner of a Tony Award) transcends realism and takes you to a world where fire is murderous and menacing, the upholstery has a vendetta, and the broken crockery is up for a fight.

In the second story of two aligned stories, third year mezzo-soprano Xenia Puskarz Thomas sings the lead role of the little boy facing magical consequences of his short temper. At 20 years old, Xenia’s commanding presence and her boyish charm fills the entire theatre, taking the audience on both a whimsical and haunting journey through her tale.

In anticipation of Friday’s opening night, Xenia shared some details of what’s ahead:

What do you think is the most magical thing about this show?

“I think the most magical thing about this show would have to be the depth and gripping nature of each opera’s plot and music! Debussy’s music is so lush and profound, and the poignancy is captured by the talented singers Iain Henderson, Naomi Flatman and Oliver Boyd.

The second opera (Ravel) is very different but will be moving in other ways… it’s a burst of energy, fast paced and full of surprises. Each character comes in and hits the ground running, sharing a little snippet of their stories and teaching different lessons.

And of course this show is just visually stunning, thanks to the inspired efforts of the creative team.

What has the creative team brought to the production to make it so wonderful?

“The director Stephen Barlow has a truly beautiful yet unique creative vision for this production. The wonderful creative team have worked tirelessly to not only bring this idea to life but created such a beautiful production far beyond I could have ever imagined it! Each scene is really intricate and has been carefully considered down to the fabric choice for the costumes, to the type of wallpaper! It’s truly breath taking and I’m so proud to be a part of this production.”

Why do you think it’s a show to entertain all audiences?

“This show will definitely hold something for everyone. The music is beautiful with many different luscious styles, it is visually stunning, and each performer has been giving stellar performances. So don’t miss it!”

Without a boring moment in an evening of music totalling just 75 minutes, there is so much to be gained. Tickets are selling fast! So come along, reach your weekly culture quota and enjoy what your industrious musical peers have been working so hard toward.

Find the link to the tickets here: http://queenslandconservatorium.com.au/opera-double-bill/

By Bridget O’Brien