Inaugural FSOO Cast Lists, Program Notes, and THANK YOUs
Another THANK YOU for the support of Inaugural Fresh Squeezed Ounce of Opera! Below, we've included the cast lists and notes from the FSOO program, with each of the composer/librettist team's spotlight interviews linked to their names.
We look forward to the 2nd Annual Fresh Squeezed Ounce of Opera next spring! Be on the lookout for dates AND the 2nd annual "call for composers!"
In the meantime, OOO is putting together some pop-up programs and a festival appearance in June, as well as beginning the preparation for Fresh Squeezed Ounce of ART SONG coming this fall. Sign up for our newsletter and you won't miss anything!
We want to hear from YOU! Your feedback is important to us -- take a moment to fill out this quick form and you could win an autographed poster from this, the very first FSOO!
 Thyrsis & Amaranth^ Music and libretto by Steven Serpa, based on a fable by Jean de la Fontaine (https://soundcloud.com/steven-serpa) Thyrsis – Julie Silva Stage Director – Jake Jacobsen, Musical Director – Nikki Birdsong |
 Now Boarding^Libretto by Wendy S. Knapp Bowman Worried – Cristina Flores Stage Director – Michael Holderer, Music Director – Charmaine Flake
 Part of the Act^Libretto by John Grimmett (www.johngrimmett.com) Music by Liam Wade (www.liamwade.com) Ginger Taylor – Maureen Papovich Stage Director – Julie Fiore, Music Director – Charmaine Flake
Intermission |
 The Miller’s Tale*Adapted story and music by Jesse McMilin, based on Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales Nicholas – Andy Fleming Stage Director – Michael Holderer, Music Director – Nikki Birdsong  Love After the Collapse of Civilization*Libretto and music by Jeff Luna (https://soundcloud.com/jeff-luna) Narrator – Patrick Wright Stage Director – Jake Jacobsen, Music Director – Charmaine Flake |
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*world premiere ^regional premiere Produced by One Ounce Opera, and supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of the City of Austin Economic Development Department. One Ounce Opera is a sponsored project of the Austin Creative Alliance. ______________ One Ounce Opera Executive Director - Julie Fiore
One more thank you to our sponsors and our amazing donors. Sixth Street Bourbon, Nathan Kurten, Andy Fleming, Michael Leidel, Martha Coleman, Robin and Paul Cohen, Katherine Altobello, Lorne L Harris, Saul Jerome San Juan, Andrew Scheberle, Carolyn Stone, June Julian, Justin Stewart, Alexandra Goodrich, Elizabeth Warren, Mateja Lane, accounts, Ethan Sherman, Phil Davidson, Jerry Long, Renee Brissette, Jan Wright, Marianne Lynch, Jamieson Taylor, Lauren White Arthur, Angela Irving, Lynn Carlson, Angela Williamson, Anne Booth, Stevie Schein, W. A. Brenner, Tony Beach, Courtney Taft, Liam Wade, Lisa Lee, Bryan Simmons, Sam Melnick, pianoamf, Susan Floyd, Ammon Taylor, Rob Casillas, Stacy Langsdale, Roanna Flowers, David Carlton Adams, William Hyland, Kara Fuhlbrugge, Wendy Schober-Ditmore, Chris McMillan, Albert Ford, Bernadette Grohol, Lori Paradoski, Laura Broy, Rain Nox, Allen Schober, Erika Wuerzner, Linda Dee Hughes, Win Bent, Matt Marr, Daniel Castillo, Julie Silva, Eric Imhof, Casey Papovich, Katherine Lewis, Elizabeth B Brown, and Bernard Bennett. A BIG shout-out to Jeanne Claire van Ryzin, W.A. Brenner, and Natalie Zeldin for the press recognition and attention! Click on their names to read the articles. Special thanks to Live Oak Brewing, Orpheus Academy of Music, Motorblade Postering Service, Design That Flies, Roy Moore/Control Images, Stephen R. Reynolds, and the Museum of Human Achievement! |
Killer Queen! Official press release for OOO's next super-collaboration
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Julie Fiore, julie@oneounceopera.com
Austin's Alternative Opera Company Will Rock You on Oct. 26
One Ounce Opera + Magnifico = KILLER QUEEN
AUSTIN, October 11, 2013 -- One Ounce Opera, an Austin Critics' Table Award Nominee for 2012-13, announced they will share the stage with local Queen tribute band Magnifico in a special one-night-only show. This is the first collaboration between the two groups.
"We've been talking about this for over a year now," says OOO founder and general director Julie Fiore, "so I can't tell you how excited OOO is to literally rock out."
That is exactly what Fiore and the One Ounce Opera Ensemble -- a professional group of "singing-artists" -- plan to do on Saturday, October 26th on Red 7's outside stage. When asked about performing opera away from the traditional performance hall, she says, "Our aim is to re-imagine opera in unexpected places. We actually launched our company at Red 7 last year. It fits. It works. People get it."
The company's performers felt a palpable audience reaction during Soundspace at the Blanton in March, for which their original post-classical performances earned them the aforementioned Austin Critics' Table Award Nomination. Fiore believes this is because Austin is ripe for innovation, and her group hopes to encourage a new generation of opera lovers through non-traditional venue and program choices.
Fiore says, "What's more synonymous with opera than the music of Queen?"
Adam Sultan, multi-talented musician/performing artist and guitarist for Magnifico, agrees. He says, "Playing the music of Queen is a challenge, especially when trying to be faithful to the complex vocal arrangements on their albums, so we're especially excited to have One Ounce Opera to help take Magnifico's live set to a whole new level."
Among the varied set lists, the two groups will perform such favorites as "Somebody to Love," "Killer Queen," and, of course, the ubiquitous "Bohemian Rhapsody."
Sultan adds, "Even Queen couldn't ask for more!"
"Killer Queen" is presented by Transmission Events, and will take place on Saturday, October 26th at Red 7 (outside), located at 611 E 7th St. Doors are at 9:00. General admission tickets available for purchase online at http://transmissionevents.queueapp.com/events/1016. For more information, contact Fiore, or visit OOO at www.oneounceopera.com, or visit Magnifico at http://blog.magnificoqueen.com/
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One Ounce Opera aims to prove "opera is not obsolete; popular opinion of opera is". OOO provides a come-and-go, laid back, interactive atmosphere to experience a virtuosic sonic event up close and in small, powerful doses – just “one ounce” of opera. OOO was founded by Austinite Julie Fiore in April 2012. For more information, visit www.oneounceopera.com
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Official Press Release: Mozart Murder Mystery on August 23rd
PO Box 301716
Austin, TX 78703
Austin-based One Ounce Opera to Re-imagine Mozart in an Original Murder Mystery
Central Texas' Alternative Opera Company will Celebrate First Anniversary on Aug. 23
AUSTIN, August 16, 2013 -- One Ounce Opera, an Austin Critics' Table Award Nominee for 2012-13, announced it will open its second season with an original production that combines scenes from W.A. Mozart's masterpieces Cosi fan tutte, Le nozze di Figaro, and Don Giovanni.
"The idea came to me one morning when I put my favorite Mozart operas on shuffle," says OOO founder and general director Julie Fiore. "I thought, 'Wow, this sounds congruent. Interesting.' I wondered what madness would be created if these characters or scenarios co-existed. Mozart's music drips with irony and innuendo. The stories already invite mystery. What if we just changed the subtext -- the situation -- mixed it all up, and watched the underlying musical conflict work itself out in a modern environment?"
That is exactly what Fiore and the One Ounce Opera Ensemble -- a professional group of some fourteen "singing-artists" -- will do during two shows on Friday, August 23rd at the Spiderhouse Ballroom, which will commemorate the company's first anniversary. She says, "Our launch last year was at Red 7, and our aim is to re-imagine opera in unexpected places, so the Ballroom at Spiderhouse made perfect sense. And, of course, what goes better with Mozart and mystery than a good martini?"
Fiore first assembled the group of “singing-artists” after holding local auditions in April of 2012, and added four new members in June of 2013. She selected people who committed to strong and fearless performances -- an integral skill when presenting alternative programs and attracting hipper audiences.
“You will immediately sense each singer's love for what they do and what they have trained tirelessly for. Our company members have performed leading and supporting roles at San Diego Opera, Washington Opera, Indianapolis Opera, to name a few, and overseas,” Fiore added.
The company's performers felt a palpable audience reaction during Soundspace at the Blanton in March, for which their original post-classical performances earned them the aforementioned Austin Critics' Table Award Nomination. Fiore believes this is because Austin is ripe for innovation, and her group hopes to encourage a new generation of opera lovers through non-traditional venue and program choices.
As Fiore is fond of saying, “Opera is not obsolete. Popular opinion of opera is.”
The OOO Mozart Murder Mystery, presented in English, will take place on Friday, August 23 at the Spiderhouse Ballroom, located at 2906 Fruth St. Showtimes are 8:00pm and 10:30pm. VIP and general admission tickets available for purchase online at http://holdmyticket.com/buy/venues/oneounceopera. For more information, contact Fiore or visit OOO at www.oneounceopera.com.
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One Ounce Opera aims to provide a come-and-go, laid back interactive atmosphere to experience a virtuosic sonic event up close and in small, powerful doses – just “one ounce” of
opera. OOO was founded by Austinite Julie Fiore in April 2012 and will officially launch their second season in August 2013. For more information, visit www.oneounceopera.com
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We made it!
Hello, friends.
WOW.
The first season of One Ounce Opera is officially complete, but the party has most definitely just begun. In fact, this coming Monday, the entire OOO team and I are excited to record some big tracks in the acoustically gorgeous sanctuary at Central Presbyterian Church. Fancy pants. We'll be sure to share the songs as soon as they are mastered...and maybe even include them on a new album? Who knooooooows?
Such amazing opportunities await OOO, after a brief interruptus for summer travels (note: did you know several of us are going to be performing in operas overseas? Stay tuned for personal updates from the lucky singers).
Now, this doesn't mean that we won't be sangin'. There are weddings that scream for Puccini (um, every wedding? haha), private parties to skillfully serenade, and surprise public places/functions to flash mob (we're supposed to be there...we promise!). Our entire company will just be partially separated by a big ocean for a while.
Sniff, sniff.
For now, here are a few hints on what's cookin' next season, which kicks off with a BIG 1st Anniversary Extravaganza on 8/23/13. Think you've got us figured out? Comment below! "Winners" get in to our next show FREE!
HINT #1: No escape from reality.
HINT #2: Don't "slam" your foot in the door!
HINT #3: I think my eye just fell off. Got a spare?
Ooooh......
Ta ta for right now,
Julie
Julie Fiore, OOO Founder and General Director
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Movin' and shakin'
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Happy Fall, e'rybody. Hard to believe we launched OOO over two months ago - we've been busy to say the least. Things are movin' and shakin' this season, and we look forward to a busy Holiday. Here is a quick update on what we've been up to (well, what we can share, at least).
*We've grown AGAIN! I would like to announce several new members into the OOO Family:
-Austin Siebert, baritone, and Dalton Flake, tenor, were welcomed into the OOO Ensemble and have already performed with the crew. We are excited to show these two off!
-Charmaine Ramos Flake, pianist, was accepted into our new apprentice accompanist position. We are thrilled to be able to present her this opportunity. She will be covering for our esteemed pianist Jeanne Sasaki on occasion - be on the lookout for this talented gal.
-Elizabeth Knudson, Maureen Broy Papovich, and Emily Wicker have been added to our Auxiliary Ensemble after successful auditions in late September. Welcome, ladies! These fantastic sopranos form an important supporting cast for the Ensemble, and we look forward to the opportunity to use them.
*Shows, shows, shows!
WOW - so many things going on in the last few weeks! Here's what we've been up to - each completely different from the last, so a unique experience every time.
THIS week:
11/10 at the E.A.S.T (East Austin Studio Tour) Official Party. Another truly collaborative, innovative event that OOO is so excited to partake in. Suffice it to say we will be "part of the art." Info here.
An update on recent shows:
10/25, OOO was invited back to participate in the Thursday Noon Concert Series at Central Presbyterian Church. We always enjoy our time singing in this acoustically-friendly environment, and appreciate the chance to share our personal favorites and try out a few new pieces. There were some stellar solo performances this day! Thanks to those who joined us for an "ounce" of opera during your lunch break.
10/27 at The Weimary in Weimar, TX -a memorable Oktoberfest Saturday Sunset Concert complete with wine and authentic German food . With Jeanne Sasaki on keys, Ann Sauder, Dalton Flake, Michael Holderer and I shared our favorite songs from stage and screen (BROADWAY, baby!) from 5:00-7:00pm. A beautiful Saturday get-away. The moon was full in the east as the orange sun set in the west - truly a beautiful evening! Stay tuned for information about our next Weimary event.
10/31 HALLOWEEN Special at Rusty's on 7th in Downtown Austin. Oh, my. What better way to celebrate Halloween than with OOO? Trust me - this was a not-to-miss show. Burlesque ghosts, guts, chains, a blow-up doll, and an important PSA about "Phantom of the Opera" - yes, please! Tickling the keys on this event was fabulous guest pianist, Johan Botes. Thanks to all who came out - video clips posted soon (or post them to our FB wall! more info below).
*Easy booking for Holiday House Parties (did someone say PARTY?)
OOO has teamed up with hearitlocal.com to provide a super fast, easy way to snag OOO for your next private event, right from our Facebook page. Want to host OOO but don't have the funds? You can also choose to crowdfund your party! How cool is that? Check it out.
*Pro DVD coming soon!
Our Launch Party on 8/23 was filmed by the fabulous professional crew at Freckled Fanny Productions, and they are hard at work editing the footage for a classy DVD, which should be available in time for holiday gift-giving. Quick note for those who participated in our IndieGoGo fundraising campaign back in June/July and chose the DVD option as your "reward": You will be mailed a copy as soon as we get them (along with your OOO bumper stickers). If you have questions about this, please do not hesitate to let me know.
*Got footage or audio to share?
Did you catch a silly OOO moment on your iPhone? Run into us at a recent flash mob and happen to be filming? Record a few special moments from a past performance? Please share! We would love to feature your footage on our website or Facebook page. Simply email the video directly to me (or upload to YouTube and email me the link). Thanks in advance!
One Ounce Opera is making quite a stir, and we owe a large part of our success to YOU, our fantastic supporters and friends. We do consider you family! Please consider us when out and about around town, and continue to share the sheer joy of rogue opera with those you care about. Remember, we are independent and unaffiliated, sustained by our audiences alone. We literally cannot survive without your support - and for that, we will be forever grateful.
There is much look forward to. My head is spinning, and our collective minds are brimming with new ideas and innovative concepts to showcase the immense scope of talent involved with this dedicated modern opera company. I am overwhelmed each and every day with gratitude.
Hope to see you soon.
Cheers,
Julie[fbshare type="button"][google_plusone size="standard" annotation="none" language="English (UK)"] [twitter style="horizontal" source="@oneounceopera" float="none"]