Students in the Opera Company of Philadelphia's Sounds of Learning program saw the final dress rehearsal of Verdi's Otello on Wednesday, May 5, 2010 at the Academy of Music.Inspired by Shakespeare, Otello tells the story of a slave who overcomes great obstacles to become a noble general, but is then driven to unspeakable jealousy by a scheming, envious officer in his army. Passion, political intrigue and a fatal flaw are at the center of this intense musical drama that stands at the pinnacle of grand opera experiences.
Now that you've studied the opera and seen it, what were your impressions? Tell us what you think and post your reviews here! Did you like the opera and why? Which was your favorite character and why? Did you like the costumes and sets? What did you think of Mark Delavan, who sang Iago from a wheelchair? Who had the best and most impressive singing voice?
Your review should be at least 50 words or more. Please include your first name, school and grade in your post. Don't forget to support your opinion!
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Comments
Both the play, Othello, and Verdi's inspired opera use monologues and arias to delve deep into the characters' differing mentalities. As a result, there is not much movement or heavy action on the stage. I though the Company did a wonderful job of compensating for this slower plot with amazing, elaborate sets, richly detailed costumes, and (credit here goes to the actors) fantastic vocals. Iago, of course, was awesome, and I hope he gets better soon! Thanks for a great last rehearsal.
It was my first opera, and it blew away my expectations. Honestly, I thought it was going to be a more grown up play, slightly boring and not that engaging, but it was fun to see the actors (all the actors) show emotion, so most of the time you didn't have to read the subtitles and it seemed that young adults could also so enjoy it as well.
What impressed me the most was that you could feel the emotions of the actors coming through their voices, which to a vocal student like me, was very impressive.
I also think that the wheel chair added to the dark appearance of Mark Delavan, which made him seem more dark and creepy.
I had and amazing experience and only wished that i could have seen the performance on Friday.
I thought Otello was great! The singers were fabulous, able to convey the characters' emotions and feelings through their voice and their songs. Probably my favorite aria would have to be Ave Maria, which Desdemona sang beautifully, giving it such dynamic contrast and emotion. In addition, the sets were fabulous, especially the bed set and its amazing canopy. I was impressed particularly by Iago's performance in the wheelchair; it's amazing that the modified staging came together as smoothly as it looked. Good luck with the upcoming performances and I hope Mark (Iago) gets better!
Verdi's opera Otello requires much effort and creativity to stage in an engaging and visually interesting manner, due to the dark subject matter and very internal-conflict-centered plot. I thought that the Company did a beautiful job in staging the opera. The sets were quite impressive, though not overwhelming, and provided a complementary backdrop to the action. The costumes, also, were quite nicely done, fitting the set time period and setting well. My personal favorite character was Iago, because of the fact that he immediately gave me the 'evil vibe'. I also liked the fact that the actor who played Iago performed from a wheelchair, because it shows a real sense of commitment to his art. My favorite voice, however, was Desdemona, because of her soaring notes in the upper parts of her range. I greatly enjoyed this opera, mostly due to the great musical interest and visually interesting staging.
Otello, the opera, had a lot of expressive music in it, which greatly helped convey the story and message of each scene, considering it wasn't in english, and therefore more difficult to understand. My favorite aria was the "party" aria because it had many different emotions expressed by the music included in it. It also had a variety in voice parts and volume because there were chorus parts, duos, and solos included. I also really liked the aria where Desdemona and Otello are singing with Emilia and Iago singing on the other side of the stage. I felt that was well organized and articulated and had a great effect while still being understandable. I enjoyed the sets as well but I felt the composition of the music was especially spectacular. Thank you!
I usually scoff at the idea of opera, finding it needlessly complex and over-dramatized. I must say, however, that I am really grateful for this program and the opportunity presented. Approaching it with a much more positive attitude, I was able to appreciate the acting, orchestra, and scenery (I especially liked Otello and Desdemona's bed with the hangy sheety thingy. I mean, that was really cool). The Libretto was a very nice addition, and it helped me in my reflections on what I heard. I can honestly say now that I will never not take a performance seriously again!
I think that everyone should go see this opera. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this opera and Iago's evil plan unfold. Mark Delavan was/is amazing! To be injured and still go through a full fledge performance without showing any signs of pain and adjusting to his predicament, definitely showed his loyalty and determination. His voice sent chills down my spine everytime he plotted with Roderigo. The sets were so intricate and eye - catching that I was left speechless each time another Act began. The company did an amazing job with the task of showing us Otello's world. The costumes were so elaborate and the actors did an awesome job personifying and representing their respective characters. Orchestra did a great job keeping me on the edge of my seat with haunting melodies. Awesome job!!
The opera was very well done, and I enjoyed the instrumentation and vocals throughout. All of the performers were excellent, though I must say that Iago took the cake. Beyond the vocals, though, I found that the orchestra (and the small string band consisting of a guzla and various small harps that played during Act II) added an entire new level to the story. Having read and enjoyed "Othello" in the past, I found that the orchestra gave me great insight into the emotions and feeling of the characters. The musical themes and leitmotifs throughout the opera provided an entirely new medium for the characters to portray their emotions.
P.S. I hope that Iago gets better soon!
Grade 12
I enjoyed this Opera very much. I was overwhelmed how Iago was still able to perform so well in spite of being in a wheelchair. The music was marvelous, and the performers' voices went terrific with the orchestra. The set was also magnificent, enhancing each scene. That was my first opera but perhaps...not my last.
OCP's production of Verdi's Otello was astonishing. From the sets and costumes, to the skill behind the beautiful voices, it was a well thought out performance. I could tell how the set designer put a lot of thought behind the props and backdrop. With the themes and emotions surrounding this opera, I believe the designer made very good choices with colors, as well as lighting.
Another thing I liked about the performance were the costumes. They looked very intricate, and did not take any attention away from the overall performance. Lastly I would like to talk about the performers. The man who played Iago had a very strong, and supported voice. He had a lot of emotion behind his voice, and his singing did not take away from his acting skill. Also the fact that he was in a wheelchair, and how that fact did not affect his voice really showed his dedication. I thought the man was also very strong, but his voice was not as supported and full as Iago. At points in his performance I thought he sounded as though he were straining, and having trouble reaching those higher notes. Lastly Desdemona had a very beautiful voice. She hit those high notes with ease and grace. She also had a very strong voice, especially in the last act when she sang while lying down on her bed.
Overall i thought the performance was really good, and if I were to comment on things I would change, I would be sure to make sure all the actors/actresses on stage know how to act before the singing, because acting is crucial to the show.
The OCP's production of Otello was phenomenal! The attention to detail yet also care of the overall appearance of the sets made them truly awe-inspiring, and truly helped place us in Otello's world. While it took me till one or two acts had passed to mature up to not laughing every time the spokes of his wheel chair shone in the spotlight, I was extremely impressed with Mark Delavan's performance (the facial expressions, gestures and sheer power of his voice made for a very convincing villain). In terms of directorial decisions, I think the beautiful sets could have been worked into the performance of the actors. The children-incorporated dancing scene was very enjoyable and I think more movement or use of the stage space would increase pace.
The orchestra was cool. I liked how they played under the stage, and the singing was outstanding. I can't wait to come back next year.
PS. I'm half Italian
Otello was an amazing opera! This is the first opera I've been to and I really hope to see more! Iago played by Mark Delavan was really a great singer! I'm sure singing an opera in a wheelchair was difficult! The sets were just outstanding! I really liked Desdemona's bedroom. When the curtains went up,the crowd went ahh! That was my favorite sceen! I think seeing the dress rehearsal was really cool! The wheelchair I think actually went along with Iago! He sorta reminded me of Mad Eye Moody from Harry Potter!
I absolutely loved Otello. Overall I thought it was one of the best operas I have seen so far. But, I thought that the bedroom scene with Desdemona and the scene with Otello on his throne were drawn out too long. I did like the way Iago's evil side was emphasized. And how Desdemona was made so pure, radiant, kind and loving,I could see why the other characters would almost worship her. The scene where Cassio gets drunk was funny. I would love to see this opera again. Thank you for this opportunity!
11th Grade
Christ Academy
As a fifth time attendee of the Opera Company of Philadelphia, I was expecting to be wowed by their performance of Otello and I have to say that I wasn’t disappointed. While this was a dress rehearsal, and the final one at that, the performance was impressive for the most part. Desdemona had a beautiful voice that carried well, and she played her character with passion. Her ability to sing while lying down was very impressive. My favorite character by far was Iago, played by Mark Delevan. Not only was his acting superbly convincing, but he sang and acted in his wheel chair! Indeed, as the performance went on, I found that the chair actually added to his character, making him seem more sinister and mysterious than before. By the end, I was convinced that the part of Iago must have been written for a wheel chair and that Shakespeare had just failed to mention it. The wheel chair had been a last minute change and the other characters responded well to the new blocking. Not only was Mr. Delevan a great actor, but his solid voice complimented his character perfectly.
The sets were also fantastic, being on a scale that I had not encountered before in opera. The use of vivid and vibrant color was especially enjoyable. The orchestra was alright, but they definitely needed some work. Fortunately the maestro took the time to work with them during the scene changes and they had improved greatly by the last act. The only rain on an otherwise wonderful parade was the audience, which was loud, uncooperative, and a general distraction from the performance. The school program is a wonderful learning tool and is eagerly looked forward to by many students, including myself. However I believe more emphasis should be put on opera etiquette in the future. Overall, Otello was a fantastic opera experience complete with stunning sets, superb acting, and beautiful singing.
-Kevin(FACTS School)
George Washington High school
Grade 11
“Othello” was a very inspiring and captivating opera. I is a good thing that my school is involved in something like this, because many teens today don’t appreciate the arts. The singing was very nice, and the plot got my attention the whole time. I look forward to attending the next opera coming up, and I’m sure my peers enjoyed it as much as I did.
The Academy of Music is huge and the chandelier scared me.
Thank you so much for inviting our school. It was something I will never forget.
Lago was my favorite character. His acting was so good that it made his character seem so real. I have been to only two operas, but so far this is my favorite! Thanks for a great time!!
This was a beautiful and exciting experience. I am looking forward to attending next years opera!
Boris Ben
11th Gr.
George Washington High School
Jordana DiPaolo
11th Grade
George Washington High School
I really loved seeing the opera 'Otello'. I thought it was very well done, and the singing was amazing! My favorite character was Iago because his voice was really deep and sounded incredible singing with everyone else. I also loved listening to Desdemona sing because her voice was very soft yet very beautful. The costumes and sets were very elaborate and beautifully made. It was a shame Mark Delavan had to be in a wheelchair, but despite that problem he was wonderful! He looked like he'd rehearsed the opera in a wheelchair the whole time! The singing sounded so beautiful to listen to, even though I couldn't understand what they were saying without reading the subtitles. Overall, I thought Otello was great and I want to say thanks for a great performance.
Experiencing Otello live was an inconcievable! From the beginning of the first act my heart was racing at the sight of the multitude of actors all on the stage. It was a slightly overwhelming, so much was occuring, but my eyes could not leave the stage. When Otello first arrived off the boat, I was a little perplexed as to who the character was until I realized that the people were praising him from returning from the battle. I expected Otello to look a lot more gallant and strapping compared to what he actually looked like. What amazed me throughout the play was the actor who played Iago. Despite the fact that he was wheelchair bound he managed to fully engulf the pure conniving disposition of Iago as to almost make you forget that he was in a wheelchair the entire time. All in the all, the sets were absolutely baroque-like. There was so much detailing that was obviously put into the set design and costumes. My favorite sets would have to be the garden where Desdemona and Cassion were talking and the bedroom of Otello and Desdemona. The colors completely added to the overall effect of the play. While it was hard to keep up with the subtitles, the singing was exquisite. Otello was an unimaginable play to have had the chance to watch and I would want to see it on an opening night.
The Opera Company of Philedelphia's portrayal of Verdi's Othello captured the audience through captivating sets, elaborate costumes, and full, well-developed and projected voices from its talented cast. The opening scene alone, "reeled" the audience in as the cast stood at the harbor and introduced some of them main charaters to the audience. The entire plot was portrayed well, but it seemed that at certain points, the actors may have been a bit affected by the audience causing the acting to be a bit less convincing. Although there might have been a few minor lapses in the acting, the cast always recovered. I believe Desdemona and Iago were the stars of the show because of both, thier acting, and their singing. Iago convincingly manipulated his way through the play and kept the audience engaged with his powerful voice. As for Desdemona, the sympathy I felt towards Desdemona revealed the quality of her acting. In addition, the songs allowed her to showcase her talent as she hit her notes beautifully even on her death bed. Overall, it was a well performed opera.
Othello is often called one of Shakespeare's greatest plays. Verdi's Otello supports that claim. Although the first scene with multiple actors on stage was exciting (especially with the sound effects), the scenes with only the main characters were often the most charming due to the simplicity and elegance of the scenes. The more complicated scenes seemed disorganized (maybe deliberately), and some of the actors and actresses did not look like they were in character. However, this feeling soon disappeared during the next couple of scenes. The scenes with only the main characters were well done. When Desdemona hesitatingly approaches Othello, her hands, facial expressions, and even her pace matched her hesitance perfectly. During the simple scenes with less action, the movements of the actors made the scenes mesmerizing. An example is Otello's actions during the scene where Iago and Cassio talk as Otello listens. The actor of Iago also did an astounding job. Even though he was in a wheelchair, his simple movements, such as putting his foot up, made the scenes he was in a real pleasure to watch. Overall, this production of Otello definitely does live up to the expectation of Othello being one of Shakespeare's best plays. The scenes of Otello are unforgettable.
Jonathan
6th grade
Christ Academy
Otello was the third opera I have seen, and I think it was wonderful. The sets and costumes were beautiful. Three of my favorite characters were Iago, Otello, and Desdemona. Mark Delavan(Iago)'s perfomance really suprised me. It was very interesting how he could play such an evil character, and then show a completely different person when he was showing off during his curtain call! I would see this opera one hundred times over again, if they would let me come to see it that many times!
I really enjoyed the opera especially because it was my first time going to an opera. I thought that Mark Delavan (Iago) was great and he did really well even though he was in wheelchair. I liked the different sets and the swordfights, overall it was an exelent performance.
I really enjoyed seeing the opera Otello. I thought that the singing was amazing. It was my first time going to an opera, and I was very impressed. You could really see the emotions in everybody faces, so I almost didn't need the subtitles! That said, I think that in some parts it was a little confusing because there were a lot of people singing and there were only subtitles for one or two. However, I still got the idea of what was happening pretty well. It was a shame that Iago had to be in a wheelchair, but I think he did very well with that and it looked like it was planned. Thank you for a great performance!
. The opera had a great story line , fitting and enjoyable music ,and a great setting.
My favorite part was the ending. Otello finds out that Iago created all the conflicts and drama and that Otello has killed Desdemona for nothing.
The only thing i didin't like about it was that I had to look up at the screen to know what they where saying.
I think Otello would deserve a 4 out of 5 stars.
Ro, Houston School, 7th Grade
My only problem was that when you read from the board that translated the messages you would miss the action that was taking place on stage. Another problem was that some of the scenes dragged on. For example it took Desdemona to long to die. But overall the singing, the setting, the conflict, and the costumes were great. If you asked me I would go see it again.
Mikaya, Houston School, 7th Grade
Kiara, Houston School, 7th Grade
Nataya,
Houston School
7th Grade
Raqia,
Houston School
7th Grade
I really enjoyed the Othello performance. I liked the part when Desdemona was dying best. I thought the actors were really good and very skilled. I originally thought I would hate an opera but it turns out it left a good first impression and i really liked it. I cant wait to come and see another performance.
I really enjoyed the Othello performance. I liked the part when Desdemona was dying best. I thought the actors were really good and very skilled. I originally thought I would hate an opera but it turns out it left a good first impression and i really liked it. I cant wait to come and see another performance.
I like the opera because it had a good plot and the performers were really dedicated. For example, the person who played Iago was injured, yet he gave a great performance. Desdemona was my favorite character. Her singing skills were superb and her character was kind and loyal. Thanks and looking forward to next year.
This was my first opera. When I walked into the Academy, I was awed. The beautiful chandelier, the paintings on the ceiling were great. My favorite character was Desdemona. She was dressed beautifully and her voice was soft and sweet. The sets were interesting and colorful. Thanks for the experience.
Although I didn't attend the opera, I thoroughly enjoyed the study guide. My favorite character was Iago because he was a lot like me. He was devious, sneaky and smart. When we read the libretto in class, I always played the part of Iago. Hopefully, I'll be able to attend next time. Thanks for the opportunity.
My experience at the opera was fun. Everything looked realistic. I liked the costumes and Desdemona was my favorite character. Thanks.
Dear Patrons,
Thank you very, very much for letting our school attend Otello. The Academy is impressive. The opera, my first, was great. Iago was my favorite.
I liked the opera but I didn't like having to read the translation. By reading, I missed some of the action in the opera. Iago was my favorite character because I liked the tone of his voice. My favorite setting was the boat scene with all the people singing near the fire.
I liked the opera and how well the actors played their roles. Our seats were good because we could see everything. Thank you.
The opera put me in a good mood and I'd like to see Otello again. My favorite character was Iago but my favorite singer was Cassio. His voice was so rich. I loved listening to him. The costumes and sets were goo, too.
I liked Otello somewhat. At some points, it was boring. The orchestra really set the mood for the entire opera. The music was great. I'll always remember this experience. Thank you very much.
My experience at the opera was fun. I really liked everything about it. The sets were beautiful. I am looking forward to my next opera.
The opera was magnificent. The actors were good and very graceful to watch. My favorite character, Iago, brought excitement and tension to the opera. He captivated my attention the entire time. I look for forward to enjoying many operas in the future. Thank you for this astonishing experience.
There are many reasons I liked the opera, but the main reasons are the storyline and the actors. The actors were very talented and believable. Although the opera was a bit long, I really enjoyed it. My theory on Otello, the character, was too naive and very easy to trick.
The opera was nice. The part I didn't like was when Otello killed his wife. My class really enjoyed the opera. Iago did a great job in his wheelchair. Thank you.
The evening our class attended to opera was enjoyable. Otello was well done. After intermission, when the curtain opened, it was so beautiful. I liked the sets. They were serene and almost looked like the scene was in a fairy tale. Otello was my favorite character.
I enjoyed the singing. My favorite scene was when Otello and Desdemona were talking and Iago and his wife were singing at the same time. Lots of action.
My favorite scene was Act 1. The most entertaining part was when
Otello and his wife were arguing and he choked her to death, just like the study guide said. I liked the opera.
Good morning. Below is our student responses from the opera Otello.
Kenny Outlaw, Age 11, Grade 5, Beauty for Ashes, Inc.
In the Opera when Otello came back from the war, he had a new wife named Desdemona. He really loved her until Iago got jealous of Cassio. Iago got jealous of Cassio because Otello gave Cassio a higher position than Iago. So Iago decided to wreck Otello's life. Iago told a lie that Cassio was in love wit Desdemona but Cassio wasn't. He was in love Emilia, Desdemona's maid. Iago was trying to get Otello to believe him and was planting words in his mind. Iago suceeded and Otello killed his wife and himself.
Kenny
Age 11, Grade 5
Beauty for Ashes, Inc.
Isaiah
Beauty for Ashes, Inc.
Kenyetta Powell
Beauty for Ashes, Inc.
Kemba
Age 11, Grade 6
Beauty for Ashes, Inc.
Otello in Act II started to believe that Desdemona was cheating on him. Iago's jealousy wrecked Otello's whole life. Otello began to get very angry. So he is staying away from Desdemona and Cassio.
Otello ends up in a bad position. He allowed Iago to decieve him because they were friends for a long time. So because he believes Iago, he says that his wife is a demon. Further into the opera, Otello goes bonkers and strangles Desdemona. This tells me Otello allowed deceit to draw him into anger and rage; but the deceit wasn't true!
Alliesha
Age 12, Grade 7
Beauty for Ashes, Inc.
I really enjoyed Otello! I loved all the sets, but my favorite was Desdemona's bedroom. I was impressed that Mark Delavan performed, even though he was injured. His character was the one I liked the most. We had great seats! This was my second opera and I can't wait till I get to go again.
Otello was very enjoyable. I liked all the music, but felt that the love song was too long. The sets were great, very colorful and detailed. The performance of Iago, by Mark Delavan, was great. The wheelchair didn't take away from the character or storyline at all. Sitting in the center seats made me feel part of the performance. I have been lucky enough to see many performances through this program and I look forward to the next one!
John Dugan
Codi Conley, Grade 9, Ferry Homeschool group.
Overall I enjoyed otello very much. It was not my first opera
So I had expectations for the event but I was generally just there to watch. In all honesty I did not get
To see much until the second half because I was sitting in front of a pole however after a change of seating I was able to appreciate both the stage and the sound. The sets and the songing by themselves were very impressive. The only part I did not like was when there was a bunch of preople songing at once at which point I felt subject to a blast of conflicting Italian and subtitles that just did not seem to work. At the end I was very impressed and glad I got to see it.
I thought Otello was exciting, sad, scary, and really cool.The sets were beautiful, it is my favorite opera ever. I loved the final scene, my favorite characters are Desdemona and Otello. The costumes were amazing, I loved Desdemona's costumes the most, they were gorgeous. The music was fantastic and had me on the edge of my seat. I LOVE THIS OPERA
Otello, was amazing. I loved the performance, the stages were very colorful. I have been to other operas and out of all of them this one is my favorite. I really liked all of the costumes. I think Desdemona was my favorite character. Her voice was outstanding, it just filled the whole room.everyone looked great. I really injoyed the performance!