Having just graduated from the University of Nottingham last July, and fresh from directing our opera society’s version of The Magic Flute, I revealed my ambition to become an opera director to Stephen Medcalf and Glyn Foley. As a Festival Assistant I was inspired by the way in which Buxton produces its operas, so they offered me the position of Assistant Director on Maria di Rohan this year. This wonderful opportunity to work alongside a director, such as Stephen, in a supportive and friendly community of fantastic top professionals in the world of opera was not to be missed! I will be working alongside Stephen during the rehearsals in the run up to the opening night. My main responsibility will be rehearsing and directing the Opera Scenes concert. This incredibly interesting concert allows the Festival to show off the talent within our Chorus as they take the solo roles, and gives a flavour of the full production. This will be an invaluable way for me to gain an insight into the possibilities of opera.
As a Festival Assistant I will be seen working around the Festival in other ways: controlling the surtitles for the operas, working in the shop, greeting the artists and speakers and stage managing the literary talks and concerts, to name but a few! I will also be trying to attract a young crowd by developing our Buxton Festival facebook page!
My excitement for the start of the Festival is gaining momentum – the rehearsals in Londonare now complete! Donizetti’s Maria di Rohan has come alive in the creative hands of Stephen Medcalf, Andrew Greenwood, Francis O’Connor and John Bishop. The cast sound fantastic, the chemistry between Mary Plazas, John Bellemer and Will Dazeley, in particular is really magical, and this gripping production will surely be the crowning jewel in the Buxton extravaganza of 2011.
Charlie Watson
