What's it like to work in the opera industry? Hosted by Daniel Welch, OperaBiz Podcast talks with industry professionals actively working in the opera world - sharing stories, talking shop, and openly discussing the ins and outs of opera in the modern age.
In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, host Daniel Welch speaks with soprano Jasmine Habersham about her experiences in "The Listeners" with the Lyric Opera of Chicago through her character's lens. They also discuss the contrast between performing new works and standard canon, and the importance of mental health in the arts. Jasmine shares insights on finding authenticity in performance, the significance of having a supportive team, and the do's and don'ts for aspiring artists. The conversation also touches on Jasmine's career highlights and her upcoming projects.
Special Guest: Jasmine Habersham.
7 Feb 2025
Samantha Hankey - Mezzo-Soprano
In this episode of the OperaBiz podcast, Daniel Welch and mezzo-soprano Samantha Hankey discuss the complexities of balancing a demanding opera career with personal wellbeing. They explore the evolution of their careers, the challenges of learning multiple roles, the importance of language in performance, and the dynamics of live theater. The conversation also delves into mental health, the necessity of taking breaks, and the joys and challenges of traveling as an artist. In this engaging conversation, Daniel and Samantha share insights on travel essentials, self-care, and the nuances of being an opera singer. They discuss the importance of trusting one's instincts in performance, and memorable moments in her opera career.
Takeaways
Mental health is a significant concern for artists in high-pressure environments.
Taking breaks is essential for maintaining performance quality.
Physical health impacts artistic performance and mental clarity.
Routine and consistency are vital for artists on the road.
The opera industry requires juggling multiple roles and responsibilities.
Learning roles back-to-back can be a trial by fire experience.
Preparation is crucial for performers to avoid anxiety.
Language proficiency enhances performance and connection with colleagues.
Artists owe it to their audience to deliver authentic performances.
Self-care is crucial for artists to perform well.
Avoid giving unsolicited advice to colleagues.
Trust your instincts when choosing repertoire.
Traveling day of a performance can be detrimental.
Memorable moments in opera often extend beyond the stage.
Some roles come with high expectations.
Authenticity in performance can redefine iconic roles.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Opera Biz Podcast
03:02 The Evolution of Careers in Opera
05:47 The Challenges of Learning Multiple Roles
09:12 The Importance of Language in Performance
12:00 Navigating Live Theater Dynamics
15:05 Mental Health and Artist Wellbeing
22:04 Finding Balance in a Demanding Career
30:00 The Joys and Challenges of Travel as an Artist
34:13 Culinary Discoveries and Travel Essentials
36:07 Do's and Don'ts for Opera Singers
42:16 Trusting Your Instincts in Performance
49:47 Self-Care and Travel Tips for Performers
52:44 Memorable Moments in the Opera Career
58:55 Upcoming Performances and Role Preparation
Special Guest: Samantha Hankey.
19 Dec 2024
Melanie Bacaling - Stage Director
Summary
In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, Daniel Welch and Melanie Bacaling delve into the intricacies of opera directing, what the different roles entail, interactions and workflow with the performers, and the importance of intimacy coordinators in creating a safe and empowering environment for performers. Melanie also shares her knowledge about working behind the scenes are The Metropolitan Opera - what makes it a unique and most notable company for opera in the United States.
Takeaways
Opera found me first, directing came second.
Assistant directing in opera is very stage management oriented.
The Met's workflow is unlike any other house.
Preparation is crucial for performers in opera.
Covering roles requires readiness and adaptability.
Directing at the Met involves a large team of assistants.
The challenges of opera time require patience from audiences.
Opera can be a meditative art form in a fast-paced world. The magic of opera lies in its ability to expand time for audiences.
Directing opera presents unique challenges, especially regarding time constraints.
Intimacy coordinators are becoming essential in opera to ensure safety and comfort.
Consent is crucial in performance art, impacting both romantic and intense scenes.
Directors should have a clear artistic mission to guide their choices.
Giving oneself permission to fail is vital for artistic growth.
Avoiding comparison with others fosters a healthier artistic community.
Freelancers must manage their own benefits and career paths effectively.
Community support is invaluable in the arts, celebrating each other's successes.
Personal milestones in one's career can be deeply fulfilling and affirming.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Opera Directing and Its Challenges
02:50 The Role of Assistant and Associate Directors
05:59 The Unique Workflow at the Met
08:50 The Importance of Preparation in Opera
12:11 Covering Roles and the Pressure of Performance
14:50 Comparing Directing at the Met to Other Houses
18:00 The Art of Directing Opera: Challenges and Insights
29:07 The Magic of Opera's Time Expansion
30:34 Challenges in Opera Direction
32:28 The Role of Intimacy Coordinators in Opera
39:37 The Importance of Consent in Performance
43:42 Do's and Don'ts for Aspiring Directors
51:33 Celebrating Community and Personal Milestones
Special Guest: Melanie Bacaling.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
4.6 / 5
17 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 42 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
64
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
51
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