Through The Lens
THE FAT LADY may have sung the final note—at least for Opera Lyra, that is. The Ottawa Citizen reported the company has been forced to cancel its productions for the remainder of the season, so that it can return in a more healthy financial state next year. After speaking to Chrissy Shannon, an opera enthusiast and co-founder of Opera Undressed, and learning about Opera Lyra’s current state, I started wondering: Why is opera so unpopular?
Maybe the real question is: Why is opera so disliked by young people today? Think about it: While the latest Twilight movie sells out faster than you can say vibrato, getting people to show up to an opera production has proven to be quite the feat. According to Opera Lyra’s board chair, Malcolm McCullouch, the company is currently sitting at a $600,000 deficit.
Are amphitheatres left empty because operatic productions are considered boring? Opera is an intricate performance, fusing text, song, and music into one. It’s a grandiose performance, but there’s no denying it has cultural ties with the rich and famous—or those who want to come across as rich and famous.
The stuffy, high-class atmosphere opera invokes isn’t the only problem with the dying art form. Usually performances are executed in languages largely foreign to their audiences, and unlike the movies, there are no subtitles, creating awkward language issues—even for the keenest opera lover.
Quite possibly, the greatest problem with opera is that it isn’t engaging. Say what you will about Twilight and Stephenie Meyers, but at least people are interested and invested in the movies. There are ongoing debates about Team Edward this and Team Jacob that, not to mention the awkward human-vampire love story between Bella and Edward that resonates for some.
Don’t worry, I’m not arguing that Twilight is the book of the century and should be mandatory reading in all Grade 11 English classes, but there is a reason why opera is dying and other genres of entertainment have a steadfast cult following.
Opera highlights beautiful classical music that anyone can enjoy. Opera producers’ only obstacle now is to showcase to an audience that thinks pop music prevails over all.
The genre needs a youthful makeover—freshen it up—and old routines need to change. Just as Shakespeare is still reproduced and reinterpreted today, operatic productions need to switch it up and showcase opera in a new light.
It’s a cutthroat world in the entertainment business, and opera needs to adapt to the ever-changing times. Here’s hoping that the fat lady comes back and lives to sing another day.
Sofia Hashi
Arts and Culture
arts@thefulcrum.ca
(613) 562-5931
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Bravo, Sofia. Well said.
This article shows how absolutely ridiculous this “newspaper” is. In the future, why don’t you research more into your topic rather than just blurting out whatever first comes to mind..and you have the audacity call yourself an “arts” editor.
I agree. If you did more research, you would know that the operas shown at the NAC do offer subtitles (if that’s your main concern here). I find it appalling and offensive that you would reduce this art form to such a stereotype. I would ask, if you have every actually attended an opera before? Perhaps when you create such a negative picture of opera you prevent people from wanting to give it a chance (there are rush tickets for students, if you every become so inclined to drag yourself away from “Twilight”).
agreed!
This is possibly the most ignorant article I have ever read. Have you ever been to an opera production? Do you have any idea of the vast variety of plot lines, genres of music, and different contemporary ways that brilliant stage directors interpret the timeless subjects that operas are based on? Ever heard of the musical Rent? It’s based on the plot of Puccini’s La Boheme. Moulin Rouge? Verdi’s La Traviata. Did you know that operatic arias of Mozart, Rossini, and the countless other brilliant composers that made their living off the genre are the original “pop” songs? Did you do any research into the operatic tradition at all before making such a ludicrous comparison to the utter literary swill that is Twilight? Because if you had done any kind of research at all you would realize that there are actual intelligent people out there that do not blindly accept that “pop songs rule all” and think that the latest teen vampire fiction is the only thing that can engage young audiences of today. If you need proof of that, check into the University of Ottawa School of Music’s production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute last year, which was so popular extra shows had to be added (yes, the university does have an opera production course) and every one of those singers and musicians involved put in hours of hard work to put on a show that was fresh and engaging, even had the audience laughing. Oh yes! It is possible to stage an entertaining opera, despite the lack of vampire heartthrobs and Taylor Swift songs. Opera isn’t dying, it has managed to stick around for centuries. The reason Opera Lyra is in trouble is because of the demographic of lukewarm Canadians that won’t spend a penny on anything that takes more brainpower than Twilight, and more of their time than 3 minutes and 30 seconds
Well said! I really hope I know you.
Do yourself, and everyone else a favor, and actually attend the opera before you start your shallow whining about it. Opera doesn’t have subtitles, because it has surtitles. Contemporary opera has been reinvented, just like Shakespeare. Most importantly, you have failed to realize that Twilight is entertainment, and opera is art. You might as well have compared it to an adult theater on a Saturday night.
Chrissy,
I am ashamed that you would applaud this article. As a fellow musician, I cannot believe that you would commend Ms. Hashi on her ignorance and uneducated hack journalism. Your fledging opera company will not go far if you agree with anything written in this article. You’ve lost a potential patron and I will spread the word to other musicians as well. And to think I was considering going to your performances. Maybe you could brush up on some information concerning the operatic idiom. Clearly you’ve forgotten all you were taught.
You need to calm down. You’ll give yourself a nosebleed.
Let me just state that I’m not upset about the fact that she talks about opera in her article. I’m angry that her article lacks any sort of journalistic integrity; she forgot to do her homework and I’m calling her out on it. This clearly shows that she is not fit to be an editor of any sort. It just hits especially close to home.
Frankly, I suppose this is only what could be expected from a writer who believes that newsworthy topics include Kim Kardashian and Jersey Shores. Perhaps an “arts” editor should be educated in the arts? Or at least know how to do basic research.
To be clear, operas are being reproduced every year. Take the Ring Cycle being redone in New York by Robert Lepage, a Canadian director, actor and playwright. The new production of the Ring in selling out.
Another thing, Opera Lyra does not only produce operas in ” largely foreign” languages, but produces English and Frenxh operas as well. And there are not subtitles, but there are subtitles, which go above the stage so that people in the upper most balcony can read them if they so choose.
You are grossly misinformed, Ms. Hashi, I would recommend you get some facts next time before publishing an article like this.
Who needs opera when you can go to PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE!!!!!!
Dear Frustrated Music Enthusiasts,
I’m not sure if you are more outraged about this article, or the fact that people in Ottawa don’t seem to appreciate opera the way you would like them to.
Ms. Hashi does not appear to be attacking opera as a whole. I can agree that her comments were rather general, but when applied to Opera Lyra, I can see where she’s coming from. The shows are dated, the staging is ho-hum, and the sound quality isn’t always the best. The example about Rent and Moulin Rouge was great, but when was the last time Opera Lyra put on a show like that?
Twilight was an example, an example that everyone knows. Clearly Sofia hit a nerve, but you all knew what she was talking about. You may dislike the fact that the “demographic” enjoys Twilight so much, but you can’t exactly blame them for Opera Lyra being in trouble. It is the job of any business to adjust their product to the needs and wants of the majority.
Unfortunately for traditional opera lovers, the majority of people in Ottawa seem to want something different.
Before you start attacking me, just let me say, I enjoy opera. I have been to numerous Opera Lyra shows (heck I’ve even volunteered for them), as well as various operas in other parts of the world.
I also believe that when someone outside the exclusive music “bubble” offers an opinion representational of many, she doesn’t deserve to be attacked. Stating that “people” enjoy Twilight does not mean that she thinks Jersey Shore is newsworthy.
It’s as simple as this.
People in Ottawa don’t seem to like the type of opera being presented.
What can you do to fix it?
Get off your butts and stop whining about everyone else.
I would have hoped that someone that represents our school newspaper’s arts and culture section would have at least a small understanding of this great art form. Maybe it does need a modern revamp.. but you clearly have not attended an Opera EVER so I don’t think you are the one to say. I am a University student who likes to party and dance at clubs. I have a small attention span when it comes to writing papers.. I am living mostly off bank loans.. AND i am also an Opera goer. I think you are wrong about suggesting it is for the rich. I love the whole Opera going experience , its a night to dress up a little, maybe have a glass of wine and enjoy many artistic elements all on one stage. It is unbelievable the kind of abilities the human voice can acquire, the sets are brilliant, the costumes, the amazing compositions written centuries ago. Why wouldn’t anyone go when it is 12 dollars for students!! :)
While I don’t agree with everything Ms. Hashi has said, there’s a fair bit in her article that has truth to it.
When I read the article, although there are some glaring mistruths (let’s not get started on the surtitling issue), the main point she’s trying to get across still seems valid. Is opera successful in Ottawa? She argues that it’s not, giving Opera Lyra’s recent decision to cancel shows as evidence. I can’t argue with her on that. Yes, perhaps she could have mentioned that opera in general internationally is having a bit of a revival with things like the MetOpera Cineplex broadcasts, but I think her main point was to deal with the local issue. It’s great that the Met is doing well with their broadcasts, but that doesn’t really help companies like Opera Lyra.
I think Ms. Hashi understands that there are a good deal of intelligent people who aren’t fooled into believing that pop-songs rule all. However, the fact remains that there are a hell of a lot of people that DO feel that way. She doesn’t argue that opera is bad music, that it’s not ‘art’ (in fact she specifically notes that “Opera is an intricate performance, fusing text, song, and music into one”). As I read it her argument is not a belittling of opera, but rather a question of how can opera break through to a demographic that is more entertained by ADHD-inspring YouTube videos. While it’s easy to blame a demographic for not going to see a specific type of production, the blame should equally fall on the shoulders of those keeping this amazing art form looking so dated. I have no idea whether Ms. Hashi has been to an opera, frankly, I don’t think it matters. It’s pretty clear that if Opera Lyra wants/is able to survive, it will at least be in part due to a MAJOR overhaul of how operas are presented. There’s nothing wrong with adjusting to meet market demands, that’s just simple business.
It’s my opinion that attitudes like “Twilight is entertainment and opera is art” are a big part of what is keeping people out of seats. Why does it have to be seen as ONLY art. Opera is and should be seen as entertainment, specifically as one of the most amazing forms of entertainment out there on a Saturday night for $12.
Ashley F,
Before you misconstrue these comments as a personal attack on your opera-going ways, please re-read my comment above. I am not upset by the fact that Sofia discusses opera in her writing. I am all for a debate on the role of opera in modern society. I hold many of the same opinions as Fletcher does above. What I am upset about is the fact that her writing of an opinionated article is so uninformed and ignorant. If she wished to write about opera, she should have done more homework on the topic. As the EDITOR of the Arts and Culture section, I would have assumed her abilities as a journalist were far better than any other applicant to the position (hence why she was appointed). But her blatant uneducated statements make me question her credentials in regard to her position. Again, I’m not attacking her because she discusses opera. I attacking her because her lack of information and awareness is offensive as a reader of the paper.
OK Darren, please excuse my ignorance on the subject, but I’m just not certain what you feel she is so uninformed about? The subtitle/surtitle comment was off, but other than that?
If there are glaring errors then I am totally behind your opinion, I just do not know what they are.
My response is mostly to the general cry of outrage I have been reading that seems to say “opera is awesome, and how dare you compare it to Twilight!”
I would be more than happy to send you my letter I wrote to the editor-in-chief.
To say this article was a disappointment would be an understatement. I would have expected an “Art’s” editor to have more class and comprehension of the art form they were attempting to cover. Clearly you have never even seen an opera- considering of the multitude of productions I’ve attended have been accompanied with a detailed synopsis of the plot, and translations either projected on a screen or accompanied in text. Unless you’re not an english/ french speaker that would be prove to be pretty clear. But the greatest problem isn’t opera’s clarity- but it’s failure to engage audiences right? It’s shameful that you singlehandedly compared Puccini to Stephenie Meyer- but fitting considering your popular culture references are rabid in your entires. If your publications are meant to be read by the general public they should at least be honest- and RESEARCHED. Instead of uninformatively, blindly, reaching a conclusion on how to popularize opera, maybe you should stick to what appeals and impassions you the most.
GTL right?
The lion’s share of the responsibility certainly does fall on the shoulders of musicians to reach audiences with their art, and it would be wrong not to recognize the efforts that have been made to do so. From drastically reduced student tickets, to the use of social media, to the redressing of opera in a variety of ways (stagings, fashions, settings, etc), opera really is making an effort to reach new audiences.
Perhaps the author of this piece should consider the influence that her articles have on her readership, and feel a responsibilty to promote art, rather than deride artists for not making enough of an effort to stay afloat (the good ones are).
Thanks for this! I completely agree with your point about helping to promote the art. I was mostly disappointed to see that the author didn’t take time in her article to highlight why one should check out the opera and how to go about doing this (like mentioning the $12 live rush). Hopefully she will read your comment and consider including such information in future articles.
I agree with Darren – yes, Ms. Hashi has correctly stated that Opera Lyra’s productions haven’t cut it for Ottawa audiences. I think we are all aware of that fact, and yes, we can all see that more youngsters are at the movies on a Friday night than at the NAC. From my experience working for the NAC’s marketing, it is largely an older crowd that patronizes the NAC – for all the events, theatre, dance, orchestra, not just opera. The point here is that the only thing she did in her article was state obvious generalities without bothering to develop them to a conclusion or even trying to thoroughly understand the subject. Making vague, blazé statements like opera needs to “adapt to the ever changing times” or a “youthful makeover” are not constructive or insightful. I’m sure many people involved in opera production are quite aware that opera needs modern adaptation, and from what I have seen, that is what most opera companies try to do, despite the unsuccessful outcome of Opera Lyra. I don’t think any of us contesting this article are trying to make a point that opera is the ultimate art form and making this some form of crusade for the salvation of opera. I personally am just opposed to the kind of lazy, haphazard journalism that would publish an editor that blithely warbles off an opinion about something she knows nothing about and then have the audacity to tell opera how to fix itself.
Well put.
Though I do not condone this article I find the reaction of some of my peers to be somewhat exaggerated. I do not think that she compared the artistic merit of Twilight to any operatic work, she compared their popularity. It’s unfortunate but true that Opera and Classical Music as genres are fading out of the public eye and her call for us to “freshen it up” is valid. I am disappointed at the personal attacks coming from some of you.
Interestingly, Ms. Shanon’s entry links to the website of a group seeking to make Classical Music affordable and accessible to all. I would encourage my peers to ask themselves what they are doing to rejuvenate our audience.
I have to agree with this. My rage, however is not directed at the comparison of popularity, rather at the article itself and the lack of research done.
All I can say is it’s Friday Friday, I’ve got to get down on Friday.
Is opera really disliked by young people today? As a 20-year-old student, I consider myself quite young, and I thoroughly enjoy opera. I have been to many Opera Lyra performances in the past, and was looking forward to attending the performances that have now unfortunately been cancelled.
Maybe people consider opera to be something only for “the rich and famous,” but those people probably haven’t heard of Live Rush. In Ottawa, students can attend opera productions for $12. Many students appreciate an opportunity to do something classy and sophisticated that doesn’t break the bank.
In response to the comment about foreign languages and a lack of subtitles, please just go to an opera. There are surtitles. In both English and French. If you speak one of those languages, you’ll be fine.
It is true that some people don’t think that opera is engaging. It is also true that many of those people have never been to an opera. So really, they just don’t know if it’s engaging or not. I have been to the opera with several friends who have gone with me simply because we got a good deal on the tickets and they like opportunities to dress up. All of those friends, who would probably not fall under the category of ‘music enthusiasts,’ had a fantastic time and were completely amazed by the quality of the productions. Several have returned for other opera productions. Maybe more young people would enjoy opera if more young people actually went to an opera.
NAC capacity is roughly $2100.
Live Rush = $12
# of shows in Springtime = 4
4X12X2100 = $100800 (Assuming they all sell out).
I have no idea how much the orchestra costs to rent but the chorus members alone will take approximately $20,000 of that.
80k to rent the orchestra, pay the director, all the stagehands etc etc. Live Rush is great in that it’s a great way for students to support the arts but it is not the only thing OL needs. They need people who are willing to pay the bigger ticket prices $40-120 and that’s going to be hard to find given their current state of affairs and the current economic climate.
As a non-profit organization, Opera Lyra’s goal is NOT to maximize profits made through performances at any cost.
From the Opera Lyra website:
“Opera Lyra Ottawa’s mandate is to produce and present opera productions in the National Capital Region of the highest quality; to promote opera as an art form and make it as accessible to as large a segment of the population as possible through community outreach and education; and, wherever possible, to encourage, nurture and support Canadian artists.”
Like many opera companies, Opera Lyra probably receives funding through donations from companies and individuals.
It is commendable that Opera Lyra has chosen to focus on education instead putting on productions with limited funds.
Opera may not be the most popular form of music/acting right now but it has endured the test of time for over 400 years. There must be some value to opera if people still connect after all this time. I doubt Twilight will continue to be read/watched all over the world for hundreds of years to come.
As Jessica alluded to, it should be noted that the purpose of the sale of Live Rush tickets is not to make money on a particular production, but to provide affordable access to a younger audience who may otherwise not spend the money on a ticket at all. Hopefully, this will lead help to keep this art form alive in the future.
Edit: Capacity obviously is not a $ figure.
First off, I’d like to say that Sofia did a good job at getting her point across. This is a hot topic in the classical music world. Like it or not, it is a dying artform if you don’t work hard at reaching out to your audience. Sofia makes some valid points and I think by attacking her writing, you’re completely missing the point.
u mad, bro?
I’m going to be the devil’s advocate and agree with Fletcher here. She didn’t really offend me in what she said. The fact is that, yes, Opera is dying out. Though it is rising in popularity right now, who’s to say that’s going to continue? We can hope it does, and I definitely do, as I know quite a few of you people personally and I WANT you guys to be successful in your endeavors. But reality is reality. We’re losing to Twilight and Rihanna.
And believe me, that makes me pissed!
But this article does not make me pissed at the writer. Want to attract the crowds? Step up your game.
There was one movie company that did a modern rendition of Hamlet (I believe). Limos and sky-scrapers and the like. I watched it! It was really well done.
Obviously, it was a hollywood production, so the Opera Lyre can’t be expected to do that. But they could meet society half-way.
There has to be a fine line erased. We have to stop snubbing the “common folk” who don’t get opera. Some of them are trying.
I am absolutely offended that Opera has been compared to Twilight. Something as intricate and incredible as opera compared some something disposable and cliche is a completely unreasonable argument. Opera may be a dying art, but it some something that may continue to live through Art and Music history. I will eat my hat if my future kids are discussing Twilight as a literary masterpiece when I am 40.
I am absolutely offended that Opera has been compared to Twilight. Something as intricate and incredible as Twilight compared some something disposable and cliche is a completely unreasonable argument.
Who wants to listen to pop music that fell out of style centuries ago? You wouldn’t expect the music of New Kids On The Block to be performed live in 2090, would you? So what gives?
Let me preface this by saying that I’m not an opera fan, however I’m willing to give it a shot because I do think it’s a beautiful art form from what I’ve heard.
That being said, the reaction to this article is so over the top. Ms. Hashi wasn’t comparing opera to Twilight, she was pointing out that one’s popularity soars above the other. She didn’t say this was a good thing, rather she wondered why this was the case and why something as terrible as Twilight is big business. It is unecessary and rude to insult Sofia because she was merely highlighting a sad reality.
The opera fans that have posted here seem to be quite passionate and I applaud them for that, however, the vast majority of people haven’t been to the opera and share the same views as Ms. Hashi. Don’t shoot the messenger.
100% Agree with you!
This article is absolute trash and shows the sorry state of art education and lack thereof these days.
The reaction to this article is ridiculous.
She makes many very good points. What she said can be applied to many forms of art/music. For example “Jazz” music is also going through the same audience and lack of funding problems. Even though, I would argue, it is a golden age for “Jazz” music now.
Now, I am obviously not an opera fan but instead of getting defensive about something a lot of you are obviously passionate about, you should think to your self. “She is right, opera doesn’t reach many people (especially young people) for some reason… What am I going to do to change it?”
And Darren, don’t be a dick. Why would you boycott Chrissy when she is trying to bring this “idium” to new audiences. This is exactly the “The stuffy, high-class atmosphere” that Sofia was talking about.
Michel,
I was not attacking Sofia for her argument. I was attacking her for her poor journalism skills. And I’m boycotting Chrissy’s company because if she is not intelligent enough to see the flaws in this article, then she may not be intelligent enough to run an opera company.
Hello,
I really enjoyed reading everyone’s comments. I know some of you and can vouch for how smart and devoted to music you are. Opera Lyra does have a hard time I think because they rent all the sets and costumes. They have to perform where the sets will fit, like the N.A.C and not a smaller venue that might be easier to take financial risks. Also the richer companies will be able to pay for the most innovative productions. Many articles have listed the C.O.C as a second tier company in the world, so where does Opera Lyra fit in. A local community production really, non professional chorus that is basically unpaid ( inside joke he he he). There is also a North American “star” element to this issue. We go to see something with a “name” attached to it. Opera Lyra can’t afford to take a chance on radical re-interpretation when they can’t fill seats with “the hits”. When you market something you have sell the experience. The luxury, opulence and class associated with opera and its patrons also detract others who do not feel they would fit in that scene. Music students will remember from history class how the opera was a more casual experience, to see and been seen, conduct business, eat, drink, talk and pay attention when a particular soloist made and appearance. Sounds a lot like a trip to the mall to see the latest twilight… no? Did we as a society kill the opera by making more than it is, Entertainment? While singing in some operas at school, what I remember was not singing perfectly or the costume and art but entertaining the audience, Even James Levine does not look for perfection. So much judgment rather than appreciation. Also I remember making the audience laugh, Opera is funny too. There will be a production again this year at Ottawa U, everyone who would like to try Opera out should go. You will see people that you might just pass in the hall transform and transcend the notion of a stuffy old environment. Don Giovanni in January! / Alumni Theater/ University Center. Please Come Ms. Hashi, face your detractors, prove them wrong, come and sit in on a rehearsal, it could be arranged at the music school office. Meet the students and write about your experience. While performing and attending Opera I have experience moments of grace, self acceptance and self reflection, it is truly food for the soul. Good on anyone who is trying to keep it alive!