Opening Night!

Last Friday night marked the opening of the 2011/2012 season at Boston Lyric Opera. I was honored and excited to be a part of the evening, particularly with the opening of Macbeth at the Shubert Theatre. I think the excitement was indeed infectious as everyone dressed up in their best opera-going and party attire for the occasion.

Macbeth is a new production for BLO as well as the commemorative opening of the 35^th Anniversary Season for the company; so the evening was much anticipated. I could definitely tell that everyone was anxious to start the show and enjoy the opening night festivities over dessert and champagne afterwards at the Four Seasons in Downtown Boston.

Even though I love running a show, the real pay off comes when the curtain comes down and I talk to those who were in the audience and experienced the music and the action on the stage. It was wonderful to be able to talk to fellow opera lovers who attended the social festivities after the Macbeth opening to hear how each person reacted to the juxtaposition of Verdi’s music and story.

However, the good feedback for a stage manager comes when the audience notices the smooth run of a performance. So, not only did the singer/conductor/orchestra do their jobs well, but the stage management staff complemented their work by making sure that they could give a superb performance without distraction. That’s what makes a successful opera and opening night.

There are only three performances left! I hope to see you at the show!

--Claire