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| "Sophisticated; gutsy; cutting edge; enchanting; stunning visual art: these are a few superlatives I jotted down while experiencing Twenty-First Century Opera, courtesy of Contemporary Opera of Los Angeles. "Opera has been reinventing itself after several hundred years of calcification, since the early 1980's when progressive Grand Operas began hiring noted stage directors in addition to their music directors. Here in L.A., we are creating Twenty-First Century Opera which fully accepts acting, in select companies. One can now add Contemporary Opera of Los Angeles to the companies where the Twenty-First Century can be found. "From the moment Susan Asbjornson steps into the playing area, the music and acting is fast and furious. Beginning with a sultry interpretation of an aria from Bizet's Carmen, the expressive soprano performs a total of 9 arias plus a surprise duet as an encore with accompanist Bill Protzmann. She is so focused, yet so relaxed.. "A highlight of the evening is a special duet Asbjornson performs with the wacky, wonderful tenor Lee Conger. By the way, Protzmann doesn't just accompany Asbjornson, he creates a context for the event with his benevolent relationship to the piano, and lively introductions to each aria. He doesn't just play perfectly, he caresses, cajoles, celebrates the ivories, as only a master pianist can. "This event is a real bargain at $25.00 a ticket, with liberal senior and student discounts. What you get is an amazing performance by the beautiful Susan Asbjornson and memories for a lifetime. This is a great show for lovers, families, those who love Opera and those who think they hate Opera. Highly Recommended. |
| REVIEW of DIVA! Jacob Clark, Metro LA August 5, 2005 |