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| "In DIVA! the funny sexy sultry ~secret~ world of opera", Susan Asbjornson and Bill Protzmann put on a show that would convince anyone that not only are they ignorant of the wondrously wacky world of opera, they've been missing pure pleasure. Asbjornson's rich musical and theatrical background - modeling, television, plays, commercials, film, musical theatre and opera has made her one of the most exciting performers on stage in opera today. She has performed opera around the globe, and here in L.A., has composed several operas, and volunteers by teaching music in schools where there is no music program. Protzmann has performed as a concert soloist, in Dixieland and jazz bands, in musicals and as a solo entertainer, and tours with his one-man show, For the Love of Music. "Prozmann and Asbjornson have developed a wonderfully funny, talent-full, two-act show that has the audience laughing hysterically (this writer included), crying with Mimi, flouncing with Carmen, and playing "La Vie en Rose" and a great time was had by all. Asbjornson has a terrific soprano delivery, excellent acting ability, (a great body) and some killer wigs. Prozmann plays like a virtuoso, and is a charming, benevolent angel besides. "As a way of giving back to the community, COLA is donating a portion of their proceeds to charity and, through their outreach program, they are sending their performers into schools which have no music. This, to me, is the most exciting part of this program. Asbjornson told me that she is able to break through to even the hard-case kids, who can't help appreciating the fun and wonderful liveliness of the presentation. It is a project that is as exciting to the performers as it is to their audience. "The contemporary story lines, a shortened running time, and a fearless attitude in each particular and unique presentation help to introduce people to an art they may have previously feared. Added Asbjornson, "Our vision is of a new performance art form, which leaps over the boundary of what most people think of when they are 'going to the opera.'" "Only one more weekend here in Hollywood, but for sure they'll be ba-a-ack! "Catch Diva while you can (a portion of the proceeds benefits PugDogRescue.com.) |
| REVIEW of DIVA! Madeleine Shaner Park La Brea News July 28, 2005 |