Opera America hosted its annual New Works Forum in New York City this year from November 7th to the 10th. This forum brings together staff and artistic team members from opera companies across the nation, interested in producing new works. Opera Parallèle was well represented by Artistic Director Nicole Paiement and Resident Stage Director / Concept Designer Brian Staufenbiel. Here are a few words from Nicole on her trip:
“Though snow and wind storms slowed our travels to New York City, the 32 hour journey was certainly worth it. Joined by librettists, composers, publishers, stage directors, singers, and dramaturges, we had the opportunity to discuss a wide array of topics ranging from Fundraising for New Works to Creating a Libretto Outline for Operas. Numerous showcase performances of both completed new works and works-in-progress exposed us to some new repertoire from gifted composers and librettists, performed by many talented young singers. Most of these events took place at the new National Opera America Center, which opened this past October. This beautiful new facility was the perfect venue for this forum. We also enjoyed spending time in its resource center, which houses many contemporary scores, recordings, DVDs, and reference materials.
It is never easy to travel in the midst of heavy rehearsal schedules. However, what a privilege it has been to take these few days to share ideas with colleagues, meet with composers to discuss future projects, talk to other companies about possible collaborations, and hear a variety of works in different venues. We come back not only inspired by our over- packed schedule of the past 3 days (luckily, New York City never sleeps!), but also reminded that our mission of promoting contemporary opera is essential to the vitality of this art form.”