Pushing the Envelope - To do or Not to do

Whether you’re a diehard opera buff or you appreciate the art form from a distance, it is clear to see that for many, the stereotypical idea of opera is changing. Opera can be seen as more than people acting and singing in 18th and 19th century costumes while in extravagant historical settings. It is particularly important in these difficult economic times to get people to the opera, and opera companies are pushing the envelope more than ever. Whether it’s the subject matter of new operas or the reinterpreting of old operas, the art is changing, but is this effective? In trying to appeal to those who wouldn’t normally attend a performance of an opera, are they turning others off?

In class today we briefly discussed interpretations of operas involving different settings, scenarios and staging, and at what point these reinterpretations begin to undermine the music and the drama and become more of a spectacle? I believe there truly is a fine line; so many operas can be adapted in incredibly intelligent and creative ways, appealing to people who love opera as well as to those who wouldn’t ordinarily consider attending an opera. However, there are also those occasions in which directors seem to push the envelope just for the sake of pushing the envelope. I also think that there is something to be said for a classic opera production produced in time-honored settings and costumes. Several people mentioned that seeing a more traditional opera production was what originally turned them on to this art form; it didn’t take an otherworldly adaptation set on the moon with the cast half nude and flying around the stage simulating a zero gravity environment.

In my opinion, the opera interpretations designed to create controversy probably turn off just as many people as they attract, if not more. While more traditional opera productions and truly creative adaptations could quite possibly bring in more of the people who love opera as well as those who wouldn’t ordinarily attend such an event. I suspect that there’s a balance in place, opera isn’t going to appeal to everyone, but there is enough variety out there to appeal to someone.