Andre Garcia and Jennifer Perez perform in Opera on the Rocks Sept. 24 at Bandelier National Monument. Photo by Felicia Orth
Alicia Solomon, director and mezzo soprano. Photo by Felicia OrthStaff Report
For the fifth year, the Los Alamos Opera Guild of The Guilds of The Santa Fe Opera, Inc., Atomic City Transit, and Bandelier National Monument presented “Opera on the Rocks” at the Juniper Campground Amphitheater. This year it was held Sept. 24.
In previous years the music has been by Mozart, but this year Zarzuelas, excerpts from traditional Spanish opera, was featured. Zarzuelas are considered the most popular form of Spanish opera. When done as a complete production, they are usually quite elaborate, with lavish sets and large casts, and usually consist of two acts. Unlike other forms of opera, most have spoken dialog between portions that are sung. The earliest ones date from the 1700s, and some are comic, while others are serious drama. The excerpts to be presented at “Opera On The Rocks” include ones from Luisa Fernanda, La Verbena, El Barberillo de Lavapies, and more; most of these are from the 20th century. Unfortunately the Bandelier stage isn’t sizeable enough for these productions to be done lavishly, but the singing and the outdoor setting will make up for it!
As world-renowned Spanish tenor and conductor Placido Domingo said of Zarzuelas, “They are a very precious part of our heritage and it is a joy to find that an increasing number of music and theater lovers around the world respond to Zarzuela.”
Andre Garcia and Jennifer Perez sing. Photo by Felicia Orth
Brian Huysman and Alicia Solomon conducting a sound check. Photo by Felicia Orth
Performing at Opera on the Rocks. Photo by Felicia Orth
Arriving for the Opera. Photo by Felicia Orth
Jason Lott, Superintendent of Bandelier, welcoming people and giving plaques to 3 people, including Brian Huysman the keyboardist. Photo by Felicia Orth
The Bridge, LAHS string quartet. Photo by Felicia Orth