Opera’s Not-So-Normal Path

I’ve been watching a myriad of movies lately and decided to share a few of my thoughts. 

 

I re-watched Sweeney Todd [the Johnny Depp/Helena Bonham Carter version] movie purely for the macabre allure.  I can’t help but be fascinated by the dynamics between Mrs. Lovett and Sweeney Todd.  I was able to locate a copy of the 1982 stage version with Angela Lansbury as Mrs. Lovett.  It’s always interesting to see the differences between a play and film.  Personally, I liked the latest movie version better … it seemed more darkly humorous.

My favorite opera/musical thus far has been Phantom of the Opera.  I have always been drawn to the Phantom character, even Lon Chaney’s version.  I felt sorry for the character because he was so misunderstood and reviled by those that shared the theatre with him.  I enjoy the latest movie – except for the fact that they moved the chandelier drop without asking me – and the play, but it’s the music that captivates me.  The fact that Phantom never wins Christine brings a tear to my eye every time.  Bill will tell you that at the play I started snuffling 10 minutes before the scene where Christine gives Phantom back his ring – just because I knew it was coming.  On a side note, I found out that Andrew Lloyd Webber had written the Christine role for Sarah Brightman [to whom he was married from 1984-1990].

And that little tidbit brings me to Repo! the Genetic Opera which is my latest passion.  Sarah Brightman plays “Blind Mag” in the film and is hauntingly beautiful.  The movie’s unique mix of the horror and musical genres, eclectic use of media, interesting characters [I was spellbound by the character named Grave Robber], and intriguing music immediately hooked me.  It’s not for everyone … well, it’s probably not for most people to be honest … but I love it.  Let’s face it, this opera is set in the future and is about having financed organs repossessed.  Nope, not your typical opera.  After the first viewing I craved the music and located a webpage [http://www.myspace.com/repoopera] that had 4 of the songs which I listened to repeatedly, even at work.

Bill bought me Repo! for my birthday and he watched it while I drove to California last month.  He seemed wholly unimpressed.  Then a week later he asked to hear the “Testify” song [not the song's title, but I knew what he meant].  I think it’s growing on him. 

One of my Opera Tickets

I was able to purchase some of the props from the movie – in fact, I own the only four opera tickets used in the film for Blind Mag’s [Sarah Brightman] final concert.  I know it’s not much, but they bring me joy.

Strange post, but just think … it saved you from further zombie ranting!