Jumping Into Opera

With my new job I knew I would be exposed to a lot of opera. When I interviewed for the position they knew that I had never attended an opera, however, growing up we were exposed to a lot of different types of arts. Crystal and I were both in dance classes through school, we were also attended many plays and theatre, and have even seen 2 Broadway plays in NYC.

This week it all changed when I heard my first live opera performances. Now there were by no means a full production, but rather solo performances in an intimate setting. The performances were amazing to say the least. We were able to listen to the lead performers for the upcoming Aida production that the Edmonton Opera is presenting. All I can say is that I have never heard singing that powerful.

Although lots of operas are written in a foreign language, primarily Russian, Italian, and French, there are some operas that are written in English as well. During the actual performance there will be subtitles that translate for the audience, but through the sets, emotions, acting and storytelling the story is actually quite easy to follow.

The Aida performance opens on October 19th and I cannot wait to see it in all of its glory!

New Career- Edmonton Opera

In the last few months along with getting engaged, I also started a new job!

I had been with Delta Hotels for 2.5 years and had met some great people along the way as well as learning some great things about the hospitality business. However, it was time for a change and the Edmonton Opera had just the opportunity for me.

It has now been about a month that I have been at the Edmonton Opera working as their Special Events Coordinator. I am responsible for raising about 1/4 of the funds that help the association run and produce operas.

I had no idea when I tool that job that it can take $800,000- $1,300,000 to produce each new opera. The association puts on 3 main stage opera's and 2 smaller second stage ones each year, so donations and fundraising is key.

This new job will mean lots of new dresses, fancy parties, nights and weekends to work, but it is a great group of people and I cannot wait to get started with some of our events!

2012 Valentines Gala

2012 Valentines Gala

2012 Opera al Fresco