Post Jose

Readers,

I have to make a public "thank you" and "congratulations" to some of the hardest working artists I know:

To the cast of UGA Opera Theater's Carmen, thank you and congratulations!
The show was a success and well worth the weeks of rehearsals and coachings.

Marisan Corsino was a stunning and ideal Carmen. She was a pleasure to work with and a gem of a colleague. I am excited to see where her career and the DMA program she has just started turns out.

Elisabeth Slaten was a strong and emotive Micaela. This is was my third show with Elisabeth and she is  proving herself to be a fine singer and supportive colleague. To her as well: I look forward to what this DMA program and career brings her.

Christopher Voss sang a masculine and sympathetic Escamillo. This is my third show with Chris and at the end of this year we're both headed out to the real world. Chris is growing in to a fine singer - the Escamillo encouraged a lot of growth and I am proud to share the stage with him.

Evelyn Shreves sang a gorgeous and flexible Frasquita. She is developing into quite a talent! Look out for her on the opera stage.

Avery Draut's rich and dynamic Mercedes provided a soothing color to the other gypsies. She is a tenacious young singer who teems with great potential!

Evan Tyor's Don Cairo was fabulous. Evan is making some extremely gorgeous sounds these days. He is a true asset to the UGA opera theater.

Ben Boskoff was a great foil to the gypsies. Ben's clear and bright tenor added a youthful shimmer to the violent bandits.

Richard Block was a domineering and corrupt Zuniga. He bass voice is reliable. I wish him and his wife Zanda the best. I am sure great things will happen for this musical couple.

David Conley hit a home run with his Morales. The role suited him well and he is always a great energy on and off the stage!

A huge congrats to the UGA Symphony Orchestra, the University Chorus, the Athens Children's Choir  and the remaining members of the opera ensemble.

A congratulatory shout out to Prof. Frederick Burchinal, Ms. Kathy Wright, Mr. Mark Cedel, Dr. Dan Bara, Mr. Carroll Freeman, Ms. Jill Biskin!!! great show everyone!

Don Jose in the repertory.

Now to finish this semester and get to work on my dissertation.

Thanks for reading,
Joe