tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39456174989318657032024-03-16T15:08:54.052+08:00THE MAD SCENEopera, musicals, classical music in Singapore<center>by Steven Ang | magazine blog reporting on opera, musicals and classical music in Singapore, Southeast Asia and the region<br><br>
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</center>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.comBlogger952125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-66957106134158261732023-09-12T12:53:00.005+08:002023-09-12T12:53:38.008+08:00Review: Handel's Julius Caesar in Egypt - 9 Sep 2023<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our audience member <b>Daniel Emlyn-Jones</b> from the UK is so kind to pen down his thoughts about <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i> this past Saturday. Here is his review of the show:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXizLrGhMKb07XsOa4aVH8z8WygBj82ZaP0GfU6m2Y6g7yxHHn0Y4McC1lbnM_jqepI8gxkufGqkmW_t3xLZ3ymA2gNZgbzkxFMlnDVGz9OpjMU8JY8bK8LEaVVO6oyhyblya26IJS1yiitNNnJlYb1phaBqAzyJXJfZVmKMLt0NEn9sRMS17AyqdMVU/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2015.59.30.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXizLrGhMKb07XsOa4aVH8z8WygBj82ZaP0GfU6m2Y6g7yxHHn0Y4McC1lbnM_jqepI8gxkufGqkmW_t3xLZ3ymA2gNZgbzkxFMlnDVGz9OpjMU8JY8bK8LEaVVO6oyhyblya26IJS1yiitNNnJlYb1phaBqAzyJXJfZVmKMLt0NEn9sRMS17AyqdMVU/w400-h266/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2015.59.30.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><hr /><p><b>Review of ‘Julius Caesar in Egypt’ by Handel, presented by The Mad Scene</b></p><p>Goodman Arts Centre Black Box, Singapore, 9th and 10th September 2023</p><p>By <b>Daniel Emlyn-Jones</b></p><p>This slick presentation by <b>The Mad Scene</b> of Handel’s famous opera made for a very satisfying evening of music. The Black Box in the Goodman Arts Centre is a roughly rectangular performance space, which provided a pleasant intimacy between performers and audience. The three-dimensional potential of the space was fully realised, and placement of a screen at the back with surtitles, capably operated by <b>Lucas Wan</b>, was an excellent choice. So often at the opera I find myself having to constantly turn my head this way and that to glance at surtitles, so this made for a welcome relief. </p><p>The backing projection slides of ancient Egypt, conceived by <b>Steven Ang</b>, also added to the atmosphere. The opera was very well cast. <b>Tatiana Konovalova</b>’s luminous and satisfying champagne voice suited the great queen very well, and I found myself wanting to hear this voice in a larger acoustic (book the Esplanade Theatre next time please 😊). Her costume and makeup, brilliantly conceived by <b>Francis Wong</b>, coupled with some wonderful acting and graceful choreography complemented the singing beautifully. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseXVKUQtFeo2Om90v-f0ZBvX2I6lAOH5tqE1mNV_jVC9fhJ2ywgT5B3ZrfatdBwg60AMSsLjaxR6XCt7m2jx3Yqv3HGMiPWdMUkFu5hKKb6L6YmOvKgqnLxq2IMmRXDZPwTZOmbaMQP4Ec5LWH-CoTc-eWn84XEuP71sXRm8cELHJ5v3sI30Gk4ZHWzU/s1010/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2012.58.17.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1010" data-original-width="889" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhseXVKUQtFeo2Om90v-f0ZBvX2I6lAOH5tqE1mNV_jVC9fhJ2ywgT5B3ZrfatdBwg60AMSsLjaxR6XCt7m2jx3Yqv3HGMiPWdMUkFu5hKKb6L6YmOvKgqnLxq2IMmRXDZPwTZOmbaMQP4Ec5LWH-CoTc-eWn84XEuP71sXRm8cELHJ5v3sI30Gk4ZHWzU/s320/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2012.58.17.jpeg" width="282" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEtG_GjViNLvox5kX0-kepGe5t8T6Qxb0VCvx48uaZcCu16KGMKz1RjKa2HH08uV5S4X-0gKmTIIu7XawVykYT9qcvIKQWw9q_X6MBeDb3zKpTVi2eECeDsM_jxNlbVB1WHkJtB33fGXFpTm3GYR1fmwS5Vb3Ohpmn8h9egnKzr3BSQz5Y_ni5g8nOsc/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2015.42.31.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEtG_GjViNLvox5kX0-kepGe5t8T6Qxb0VCvx48uaZcCu16KGMKz1RjKa2HH08uV5S4X-0gKmTIIu7XawVykYT9qcvIKQWw9q_X6MBeDb3zKpTVi2eECeDsM_jxNlbVB1WHkJtB33fGXFpTm3GYR1fmwS5Vb3Ohpmn8h9egnKzr3BSQz5Y_ni5g8nOsc/w400-h266/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2015.42.31.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><p style="text-align: justify;">Steven Ang, playing Julius Ceasar, had great stage presence, and his dark baritone, which negotiated the demanding role with considerable ability, contrasted nicely with Tatiana. Voice appreciation is such a subjective business, and I often find myself longing for more chiaroscuro balance in the darker male voices (Jonas Kaufmann included!), but all in all these lead roles convinced. Francis Wong played Ptolemy with a deliciously camp delinquency and charismatic singing which I greatly enjoyed and <b>Hugo Van Bever</b>’s rakish portrayal of Achillas was equally effective, with some wonderfully humorous touches, such as when he delivers the line: ‘think about it’ to poor Cornelia! Cornelia (played by <b>Chieko Trevatt</b>) and Sesto (<b>Ashley Chua</b>), both sang exquisitely, and their duet before the intermission was so heartrendingly beautiful, I had to find my way to the restrooms while still crying! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGHNNmq09xuBaNaTTtyduA2fsco0n6GNpj3MLVE5PxvRWQWKm9kl4xdH4AAsbm_CKRMd_4YEa2KnBjTOUFI8K732jBORvb0sHbP6BQUZrHubJbuSLj8anfLojSVAwOMIcl32nJOXAZm2cO7LJoR5CKMPaSElBKsZUr5817TVbI7e1MHooQAmA1i3nC_4/s692/IMG-20230909-WA0103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="503" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVGHNNmq09xuBaNaTTtyduA2fsco0n6GNpj3MLVE5PxvRWQWKm9kl4xdH4AAsbm_CKRMd_4YEa2KnBjTOUFI8K732jBORvb0sHbP6BQUZrHubJbuSLj8anfLojSVAwOMIcl32nJOXAZm2cO7LJoR5CKMPaSElBKsZUr5817TVbI7e1MHooQAmA1i3nC_4/s320/IMG-20230909-WA0103.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgEIV9GZVCyszv6P2eVDYv17vQuy749g1Zqv5K5tix1j2F5eUxupbo6wrpgheVK9LUpVXDr9WKRiJWjggNXHGxAR6D4nLfHtRUBOI0kJplIyUsPBXoLkFaiuRhoFik6Snb4tMaNjO-jgEiAJEYdONb8NT-iJ9VOG_ooWditQtCF3hVbisYIYZYjQkd3Kw/s692/IMG-20230909-WA0103.jpg" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pJByVky5tuCtdl3st7JnvQJANKDemFDWOiq8YNPvlnFfZ-itxClmfUTeAm3eTEZ2qy-R00sdfrexJb21RhYnlfydcJA23l18Dmh6CqFcgWoNG1R-tehJp5G0dZZNNxYXQbxju86Lm0uqTKPuzH9BgrHLis7-KjhyttTQByOHp4qsc9554MuldacL-hg/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2013.00.37.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="1600" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_pJByVky5tuCtdl3st7JnvQJANKDemFDWOiq8YNPvlnFfZ-itxClmfUTeAm3eTEZ2qy-R00sdfrexJb21RhYnlfydcJA23l18Dmh6CqFcgWoNG1R-tehJp5G0dZZNNxYXQbxju86Lm0uqTKPuzH9BgrHLis7-KjhyttTQByOHp4qsc9554MuldacL-hg/w400-h224/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2013.00.37.jpeg" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtUQczExSxMnVVYlW1oIXBXfoKGi8jJ4OHa2l_W_tuBlHDK9YLokyq4FcCvGMoEDkfcMqb-9oZdvZctfVboNCOiA49THyK0QZ9k4yvbGs8mJOxJzjdr1rCfNQmkw4edDgkM-SPxay4KrlIHJcz2sr9roWl_yriOdcqz71bhpJQnczivpOO2AE43XBeCo/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2013.00.13.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVtUQczExSxMnVVYlW1oIXBXfoKGi8jJ4OHa2l_W_tuBlHDK9YLokyq4FcCvGMoEDkfcMqb-9oZdvZctfVboNCOiA49THyK0QZ9k4yvbGs8mJOxJzjdr1rCfNQmkw4edDgkM-SPxay4KrlIHJcz2sr9roWl_yriOdcqz71bhpJQnczivpOO2AE43XBeCo/w400-h268/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2013.00.13.jpeg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">The performance was expertly devised by artistic director Steven Ang and resident director </span><b style="text-align: left;">Hawk Liu</b><span style="text-align: left;">. Having the singing in Italian and the dialogue in English was very effective, and the English dialogue, written by Hawk Liu, succeeded in delivering the story with crystal clarity. Pianist </span><b style="text-align: left;">Francesca Lee</b><span style="text-align: left;"> accompanied the opera flawlessly. </span><b style="text-align: left;">Shana Yap</b><span style="text-align: left;"> did sterling work with the lighting, which delivered at key moments but never became intrusive. Last but not least, </span><b style="text-align: left;">Denise Liu</b><span style="text-align: left;"> gave a very friendly welcome front of house and was very tolerant when I got all my QR Codes mixed up!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqu-mtgEL2332oJ-YG8158HHA_yh7fwKQk--hAJiW4htk7ROTmF2FhEce_14XKDeFF-yWrbnC11hvubQ6FwnKBGylOQlGpMBKGHX_COhO4Ev_RCdcQmJd-rPT_5eOVl9_QDFHhjbOO15sgAVzbzXfoMxYDL0GWsOaKJc6iUQ1-VWbJPx2b6pBF4Vwvio/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2016.01.50.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqqu-mtgEL2332oJ-YG8158HHA_yh7fwKQk--hAJiW4htk7ROTmF2FhEce_14XKDeFF-yWrbnC11hvubQ6FwnKBGylOQlGpMBKGHX_COhO4Ev_RCdcQmJd-rPT_5eOVl9_QDFHhjbOO15sgAVzbzXfoMxYDL0GWsOaKJc6iUQ1-VWbJPx2b6pBF4Vwvio/w400-h266/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-09-07%20at%2016.01.50.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uwCLOeKtx3lumD8LSJYegkJk3KcoBip_1SBAkU4GTocMR_W6xcyDrKzctgwflo9iHSDR5a5SBp-Arf7PbJO-5lLzjrhvn0w7j5fragavHCadO2x6OrCXAeBEo-1HB4JIlUxWy4POiZMV7zJlc5Ofpa0tHCRMw2IVAkBslBE720nxXwQRqXddXJQSccc/s345/Hawk%20pic.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="287" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7uwCLOeKtx3lumD8LSJYegkJk3KcoBip_1SBAkU4GTocMR_W6xcyDrKzctgwflo9iHSDR5a5SBp-Arf7PbJO-5lLzjrhvn0w7j5fragavHCadO2x6OrCXAeBEo-1HB4JIlUxWy4POiZMV7zJlc5Ofpa0tHCRMw2IVAkBslBE720nxXwQRqXddXJQSccc/w333-h400/Hawk%20pic.png" width="333" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">This production by The Mad Scene shows what can be achieved when people who are passionate about opera come together with a shared vision. Thank you so much for sharing your art with us! </span></div><br />
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Thank you Daniel for the really kind review! Please follow Steven Ang on Instagram<div><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stevenangopera/">Steven Ang (@stevenangopera) • Instagram photos and videos</a> and Facebook <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StevenAngOpera/">https://www.facebook.com/StevenAngOpera/</a> to stay in touch! </div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-31899820266134151202023-09-02T10:58:00.009+08:002023-09-02T14:16:24.471+08:00Quick Chat with Hawk Liu - Julius Caesar in Egypt - 9 and 10 Sep 2023 <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KfG6VMio0x4y0RntgkBbbjJcTV79ylEbqjnPV3veh7Y-rw3SOqO4qpmNVPKir8YKK-hyRyinHncWAI6Q5Vx7qnSjKzI-2QddKyGmm79ym9i6oZvm0U8h4qD3LA-9xwUG1nv2TnXxSPmYXGWs2jQz68cUPqiMja-77EQE_s79fiEpugSCc2IdzBV237M/s5521/Handel_Giulio%20Cesare_SonyA74Tamron28-75%202023-05-24%20(235).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4567" data-original-width="5521" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0KfG6VMio0x4y0RntgkBbbjJcTV79ylEbqjnPV3veh7Y-rw3SOqO4qpmNVPKir8YKK-hyRyinHncWAI6Q5Vx7qnSjKzI-2QddKyGmm79ym9i6oZvm0U8h4qD3LA-9xwUG1nv2TnXxSPmYXGWs2jQz68cUPqiMja-77EQE_s79fiEpugSCc2IdzBV237M/w400-h331/Handel_Giulio%20Cesare_SonyA74Tamron28-75%202023-05-24%20(235).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Production director Hawk Liu with the cast of Julius Caesar in Egypt</i></div><p></p><p><b>Hawk Liu</b> is a wearer of many hats - singer, teacher, astrologer, actor of stage and screen, videographer to the stars, and Singapore's sexiest legs over 50... but here we speak to him as the director of our exciting upcoming production of <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i>. Read on to get to know our maestro better, and check out our exclusive promo code at the end of the article! </p><p><a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923">Julius Caesar in Egypt [G] (sistic.com.sg)</a></p><p><b>What I like about my role (musically and dramatically)?</b></p><p>As a director, i certainly enjoy being able to make opera accessible and also the way I would like people to see it, without the traditionally stuffy interpretation but also not needing to do a radically different take by being abstract.</p><p><b>What is your horoscope star sign, and what does it say about you? </b></p><p>I happen to be a professional Astrologer. My sun sign, Sagittarius, says that I think I am always right - but that's not true - I am just right most of the time!</p><p><b>Tell us something that we would not otherwise know about you? </b></p><p>I used to be able to walk on my hands and do somersaults and ballet pirouettes, but since my body weight distribution has changed quite a bit from back then, I don't think I can do those things anymore. Or maybe I should try again....</p><p><b>What do you like to do when you’re not at work? </b></p><p>I am not very good at not working! All my hobbies are my work, so maybe I don't really feel like I am working.</p><p><b>Lastly, tell us why we should watch <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i> on 9 and 10 September?</b></p><p>You have to come watch the show cos it's going to be amazing and the characters were specifically directed to come alive for you, the audience!<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSMA99yltE8AAmGiUA9As8Edjxa67DCr54bFyHm2LxvNkhLMIwSk3Rt_4MaoGhxyQv_E37HtWpxQj88_lNIrXWL6hII73j-uGKNLUWDdWouY8i4mqyL9lxWHqtAEmrbgt-6Bm65_bcrILmF7CS2LXwJdFvI4cq9LxcoCnc4MEobo_dfaj_P09lqbsoc0/s819/photo.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="519" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSMA99yltE8AAmGiUA9As8Edjxa67DCr54bFyHm2LxvNkhLMIwSk3Rt_4MaoGhxyQv_E37HtWpxQj88_lNIrXWL6hII73j-uGKNLUWDdWouY8i4mqyL9lxWHqtAEmrbgt-6Bm65_bcrILmF7CS2LXwJdFvI4cq9LxcoCnc4MEobo_dfaj_P09lqbsoc0/w406-h640/photo.png" width="406" /></a></div>
<hr /><p>Tickets for <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i> (9 and 10 September) are now on sale at SISTIC. Use the promo code 'Julius' for 10% off. Discounts are also available for NSFs, senior citizens and students! </p><p><a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923">Julius Caesar in Egypt [G] (sistic.com.sg)</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com090 Goodman Rd, Singapore 4390531.302993 103.8852073-78.873229764953408 -36.739792699999967 81.479215764953409 -115.48979270000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-54762464785291030792023-09-01T15:22:00.006+08:002023-09-01T17:02:23.057+08:00The Mad Scene Turns 15 Today!!!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORNKI6rRmFDeW0_vhqP-pGbooZn8BuvzsAzSfFJ1BpKmHujXO4tRV-G4s_fUQUrgQh7L-dmNpClaufM1hmgr40HhIhbYz1fOUKHSk2ruXvqAd1YuQmm75h_JiWS8laEXxBQxEX88Md7tscVUZrjxuy_lP_3xFdgYhnhcKstnCaarNuWMZjUt-3Zol7F8/s511/15%20birthday.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="510" data-original-width="511" height="399" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORNKI6rRmFDeW0_vhqP-pGbooZn8BuvzsAzSfFJ1BpKmHujXO4tRV-G4s_fUQUrgQh7L-dmNpClaufM1hmgr40HhIhbYz1fOUKHSk2ruXvqAd1YuQmm75h_JiWS8laEXxBQxEX88Md7tscVUZrjxuy_lP_3xFdgYhnhcKstnCaarNuWMZjUt-3Zol7F8/w400-h399/15%20birthday.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><b>The Mad Scene</b> turns 15 today! So happy to be part of Singapore's burgeoning artistic community. What started out as an outlet for three opera fanatics to discuss our favourite recordings soon became one of Singapore's most read independent e-zines, which then became a production company and record label. Thank you for sticking it through with us and showing us your continued support. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6Nszt_0DGFdhUv4Aq3zyUKAxwgeDN2GREU45yKGDocW0ePUaEKD0DvsDwbG_F2cq2OsaPzKxYIu3s5toN4VEdUq6RhWpk8EuxGVIP7mm_iKwPORoh7aUmwumuwf2zQ_HCmayOwipWO1eQuLGUkXkITV-pGFYpIiC0ihvDhFqfqym8hpiDf0KGXB1tlM/s1801/1200%20x%201200.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1801" data-original-width="1801" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig6Nszt_0DGFdhUv4Aq3zyUKAxwgeDN2GREU45yKGDocW0ePUaEKD0DvsDwbG_F2cq2OsaPzKxYIu3s5toN4VEdUq6RhWpk8EuxGVIP7mm_iKwPORoh7aUmwumuwf2zQ_HCmayOwipWO1eQuLGUkXkITV-pGFYpIiC0ihvDhFqfqym8hpiDf0KGXB1tlM/w400-h400/1200%20x%201200.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><p>Coming up next is one of our biggest productions to date - our very own take on Handel's classic opera <i><b>Giulio Cesare in Egitto</b></i>, or <i><b>Julius Caesar in Egypt</b></i> for our English speakers. It has truly been a big project to undertake, and we are so grateful to have assembled such a wonderful team onstage and off to give you the most complete musical and theatrical experience. I hope that you will join myself, <b>Steven Ang, Tatiana Konovalova, Ashley Chua, Hawk Liu, Chieko Trevatt, Hugo Van Bever</b> and <b>Francesca Lee</b> on 9 and 10 September at Goodman Arts Centre. </p><p>As a special thank you for your support, please use promo code 'Julius' for a special 10% discount, with further discounts available for senior citizens, NSFs, students and children. Check out our exciting promos below, and see you at the theatre on 9 and 10 September! </p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/1605038763318603/?active_tab=discussion">Handel's Julius Caesar in Egypt - 9 and 10 Sep 2023 | Facebook</a></p></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-72961210798669629702023-08-17T14:17:00.003+08:002023-08-20T10:29:44.572+08:00Quick Chats with Francis Wong and Steven Ang<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJahQnlvdeN24rfBOpc_4ltFQYUAIgRDTIMeC-Pc56kPRZViKBzX7gEOeeHjxGr9mAWmJ21y4VrWCoGYUtxdQtC_4Atk9_knjk3Ow97FngprOUGMjf0M0mbmCh7NdmrYmkVyGLBwRGRXQEeCbSD-sf94ZVz60Baf8TjfnDlQWiLFAqTfhH4JLqAcgHP0/s1600/Banner%20-%20Ptolemy.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="1600" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizJahQnlvdeN24rfBOpc_4ltFQYUAIgRDTIMeC-Pc56kPRZViKBzX7gEOeeHjxGr9mAWmJ21y4VrWCoGYUtxdQtC_4Atk9_knjk3Ow97FngprOUGMjf0M0mbmCh7NdmrYmkVyGLBwRGRXQEeCbSD-sf94ZVz60Baf8TjfnDlQWiLFAqTfhH4JLqAcgHP0/w400-h188/Banner%20-%20Ptolemy.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Tickets for Julius Caesar in Egypt are available at SISTIC. Find a special promo code for discounts at the end of the article! (<a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923">Julius Caesar in Egypt [G] (sistic.com.sg)</a></p><p><b>FRANCIS WONG</b></p><p>Hong Konger baritone <b>Francis Wong</b> is always a pleasure to perform with - He is always a warm and friendly presence with a lovely lyric baritone voice and dramatic instincts to match. Having performed in numerous roles on stages around the world, we were fortunate enough to have him in our concerts A Musical Sanctuary (2019) and Cycles (2023). </p><p>Franics is very excited to be making a role debut with us in <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i>, coming soon on 9 and 10 September. Here we have a quick chat to get to know him better. </p><p><b>What I like about my role (musically and dramatically)?</b></p><p>This is one of the only true villains of this Opera. I have never played this type of roles before, so I really welcome the challenge. I am also a lover of baroque music so being able to perform Handel's work is a dream come true for me.</p><p><b>What is your horoscope star sign, and what does it say about you?</b></p><p>I am a Gemini. They say it's very witty and full of energy and ideas, they aren't wrong! </p><p><b>Tell us something that we would not otherwise know about you?</b></p><p>Prior to becoming an opera singer, I studied to become a professional interpreter, and worked as one briefly. </p><p><b>What do you like to do when you’re not at work?</b></p><p>Everyone knows I love traveling passionately. In my free time, I love to learn how to cook different exotic dishes. For relaxation, I play the harp. </p><p><b>Lastly, tell us why we should watch Julius Caesar in Egypt on 9 and 10 September?</b></p><p>It's a rare opportunity for Singapore audiences to get to enjoy the essence of this wonderful opera in a shorter form, with dialogues in English and arias in Italian (but with English subtitles). I have also been helping with the wardrobes for everyone, so be pleasantly surprised! This "small" production packs a big punch! See u all there.</p><p><b>STEVEN ANG</b></p><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCksKWNMo-_LHo6xsrMy_NHX6civjvnwKENJeo4rHFUnRmWR07_W1G-2yBvKQEvR8ZbwuM0mq2XDy2ltslslukLmhejan8ta5ONlHfw7T0liHmY7dY5HM_rRoOsguzuIqOGbiws0zEisbMyvJrHF40cq8nTrzHD5fZrNDI36EkJlwRTdMcQoar4nFiuM/s1324/cropped%20headshot.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1324" data-original-width="1188" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOCksKWNMo-_LHo6xsrMy_NHX6civjvnwKENJeo4rHFUnRmWR07_W1G-2yBvKQEvR8ZbwuM0mq2XDy2ltslslukLmhejan8ta5ONlHfw7T0liHmY7dY5HM_rRoOsguzuIqOGbiws0zEisbMyvJrHF40cq8nTrzHD5fZrNDI36EkJlwRTdMcQoar4nFiuM/w359-h400/cropped%20headshot.jpg" width="359" /></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Getting to present Handel's epic opera <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i> has always been a dream of mine, so it is extra heartening that I am able to gather such an amazing team to help me deliver my vision of this opera to a Singaporean audience. </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">This isn't, however, my first voyage to Egypt in the world of operatic stages, as I have played the Pharoah in the Singapore Lyric Opera's production of Aida. I look forward to visiting this beautiful ancient world again, this time as one of the most well-known people of this era of all time. </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><b>What I like about my role (musically
and dramatically)?</b><p></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The fact that this character is a
real-life person who's entire adult life has been one adventure to
another, even at the time of death, and is such a legend that every
generation has it's own tribute to him. I love that the story is
based on real-life events even though some dramatic liberties were
taken for dramatic exposition.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I have always been a geek for
historical works, which is a big reason why I'm an opera singer and
classical musician. Besides works of master composers like Handel and
Verdi, I have also dipped my toes in performing the works of
Shakespeare. The timelessness of pieces is what attracts me the most
and I'm thrilled at the opportunity to put my own stamp on them at
this point in time.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What is your horoscope star sign,
and what does it say about you?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">My horoscope is Pisces, the water sign. ILike my star sign I am known for being easygoing while being on the intoverted side at the same time. </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In addition, I love being in water, so regular trips to the neighbourhood swimming
pool or water parks like Sentosa Adventure Cove and Wild Wild Wet is
how I destress after a long week.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Tell us something that we
would not otherwise know about you?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I have been growing as an Italia-phile
since Covid. My experience with Italian prior to lockdown has mostly
been song lyrics, but since then I have developed a love for learning to speak the language, as well as understanding the various
regional and popular cultures better, outside of opera and classical
vocal music. Drag Race Italia, the Italian spin-off of RuPaul's Drag
Race, is awesome!</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What do you like to do when you’re not at
work?</b><br /><br />People say that when you make your passion your work,
you won't work another day in your life. But the opposite is also
true, in that if you make your hobby your job, you won't have hobbies
anymore! Haha....</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So after a long day of teaching and
rehearsal, what I really like to do is simply to lie down on my
queen-sized bed and watch an endless stream of YouTube videos!</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Otherwise, I love to just hang out with
my partner, have dinner with friends and support them when they
perform. Life in Singapore is so fast-paced that it's hard to
maintain friendships, so it's important to put in the time when I
can.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Lastly, tell us why we should watch
Julius Caesar in Egypt on 9 and 10 September?</b></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We have asembled a great international
cast and crew this time. Everything that you loved about our first
production of <i>Macbeth </i>last year will be dialed up many times more, including
more elaborate costumes, performers, lighting and so on. English
subtitles will also be provided.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The music that Handel composed
encapsulates every range of expression, both in human emotions and
musicality. This is a sweeping musical epic with political intrigue
and romance coupled moments of comedy. You would not want to miss it!</p><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sSk1Ak_BP3M" width="320" youtube-src-id="sSk1Ak_BP3M"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Full cast trailers</i></div><p>Tickets for <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i> (9 and 10 September) are now on sale at SISTIC. Use the promo code 'Julius' for 10% off. Discounts are also available for NSFs, senior citizens and students! </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923">Julius Caesar in Egypt [G] (sistic.com.sg)</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45fYcNNz9Xh5S_t1cfRloycMONO8-FPpTM0_sb9xP6dd4QwKXTFpV7Q-QQJGX0u-0_5rvqIU3MRgoHXlFqTAJSBez4qpoBexzYMLkoB-IBmfC88Vk_nj9EP6BBTEI9KJUMIy04pNjKerdpo_oWHP751bY3FFk4QxTWRGReysor13ErdecncWotHoR0bI/s1494/abandon%20cart.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1494" data-original-width="786" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg45fYcNNz9Xh5S_t1cfRloycMONO8-FPpTM0_sb9xP6dd4QwKXTFpV7Q-QQJGX0u-0_5rvqIU3MRgoHXlFqTAJSBez4qpoBexzYMLkoB-IBmfC88Vk_nj9EP6BBTEI9KJUMIy04pNjKerdpo_oWHP751bY3FFk4QxTWRGReysor13ErdecncWotHoR0bI/w336-h640/abandon%20cart.jpg" width="336" /></a></div><br /><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-82315486023940977002023-08-15T10:59:00.003+08:002023-08-15T11:23:18.685+08:00Quick Chats with Francesca Lee and Chieko Trevatt<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Julius Caesar in Egypt on 9 and 10 Sep 2023</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We sit down for a couple of quick chats with pianist Francesca Lee and mezzo-soprano Chieko Trevatt, to discuss their participation in <i>The Mad Scene</i>'s production of Julius Caesar in Egypt on 9 and 10 September 2023. English subtititles will be provided. Read on for an exclusive promo code! </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923">Julius Caesar in Egypt [G] (sistic.com.sg)</a></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Francesca Lee</b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPdugY6CDdTPbyR5TzSj9VafqVZiViB3UcW3CqJQOt3kwW3-qcqC9DzhVQACr69DsDPg5yiDj3S8cDOt0evK2oE_t9VAl4nGu6_2ZkMGSTyecynqejFluOmbFBi79Jho4-7AafkB0aw38QVtwvrovODdBpObd5XKLkl0GVBHlZENAD1aqjgpuXFIoD73AE/s1024/Francesca%20Profile.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="1024" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPdugY6CDdTPbyR5TzSj9VafqVZiViB3UcW3CqJQOt3kwW3-qcqC9DzhVQACr69DsDPg5yiDj3S8cDOt0evK2oE_t9VAl4nGu6_2ZkMGSTyecynqejFluOmbFBi79Jho4-7AafkB0aw38QVtwvrovODdBpObd5XKLkl0GVBHlZENAD1aqjgpuXFIoD73AE/w400-h268/Francesca%20Profile.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">More than a decade on the professional stage, Francesca enjoys immersing herself in vocal repertoires and loves working with soloists and choirs alike, having performed at major art venues in Singapore, Hong Kong and Germany. Never restricting herself to any particular musical genre, she has been involved in various Singapore Lyric Opera productions as well as in jazz and musical gigs such as for the annual "L'apéritif à la française" (2012) and "Pink Beats", a charity concert for the Breast Cancer Foundation in Singapore. </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Francesca has played for numerous projects by The Mad Scene, including Macbeth in April last year and Cycles in July this year. Here we have a quick chat to get to know her better.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What I like about my role?</b></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I play the role of the one-person
orchestra and provide musical accompaniment for our cast from the
ivories.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I love taking on the challenge of
having to mimic the sound of a baroque orchestra on a modern-day
piano in order to not only transport our cast and audience to a Roman
tale in Egypt, but also to bring to life the musical style and
aesthetics of the era the composer Handel lived in.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What is your horoscope star sign, and
what does it say about you?</b></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I am a Scorpio and I wonder if I do
live up to our notorious reputation! (laughs)</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Tell us something that we would not
otherwise know about you?</b></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I have a huge love for cats and
puffins.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What do you like to do when you’re
not at work?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I indulge in my many hobbies, which
include reading fiction and poetry, traveling, watching films, and I
geek out on architecture and Mesopotamian history.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Lastly, tell us why we should watch
<i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i> on 9 and 10 September?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Caesar and Cleopatra are two
historical figures who made their way into famous literary works and
popular media across the centuries. I first came to know of them
through Shakespeare’s plays rather than the history books!
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Come check out Handel’s operatic
take of the story between the Roman general and the young Egyptian
queen!</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>Chieko Trevatt</b></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_gJIE0vriL-w_ONOdLF7OL-C4GxpysfNyMDApDpUjtwbcm-KQnv-_jGTA-pCf9I-pbU_qYRiztbeoZUv97gz2cSh5SBpsMNLnCZFOcKZlz27i9tvr2j27Olr-FhRHW0yQuwe-c73Rb-QKOr7K3mtbpyA3tZPCoEZON3ck4JsNJ51QnB2ZYqurVlupRs/s1600/Banner%20-%20Cornelia.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1600" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV_gJIE0vriL-w_ONOdLF7OL-C4GxpysfNyMDApDpUjtwbcm-KQnv-_jGTA-pCf9I-pbU_qYRiztbeoZUv97gz2cSh5SBpsMNLnCZFOcKZlz27i9tvr2j27Olr-FhRHW0yQuwe-c73Rb-QKOr7K3mtbpyA3tZPCoEZON3ck4JsNJ51QnB2ZYqurVlupRs/w400-h194/Banner%20-%20Cornelia.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Japanese mezzo-soprano Chieko has lived for more than 20 years as a Permanent Resident of </span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Singapore, where her music journey began 10 years ago. After performing for a few years with the Singapore Lyric Opera adult chorus, she was accepted into the SLO Leow Siak Fah Artists Programme. She has performed the roles of Marcelina, Donna Elvira and Dorabella in their semi-staged opera productions, and has sung in numerous concerts. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are thrilled to have an artist of Chieko's calibre with us. </div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What I like about my role?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">My role, Cornelia is a widow of a Roman General.
One of the things I love about this role is the beautiful and
poignant music that accompanies it. The music is very calming and
adds a lot to the emotional depth of the character.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><b>What
is your horoscope star sign, and what does it say about you?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> My
star sign is Leo. Leo loves to be on stage. However, I see quite a
bit of Cancer in myself as my birthday is nearly in between Cancer
and Leo. <br /><br /><b>Tell us something that we would not otherwise know
about you?</b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> I listened to Hard Rock music when I was a teenager.
<br /><br /><b>What do you like to do when you’re not at work? </b></p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I love
green and I use lots of green plants for Japanese flower-arrangement,
Sogetsu Ikebana. <br /><br /><b>Lastly, tell us why we should watch Julius
Caesar in Egypt on 9 and 10 September?
</b></p>
<p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">The story of Giulio Cesare is
incredibly dramatic and our performance is full of energy. You won't
want to miss it.</p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sSk1Ak_BP3M" width="320" youtube-src-id="sSk1Ak_BP3M"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Full cast trailers</i></div><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Tickets for Julius Caesar in Egypt (9 and 10 September) are now on sale at SISTIC. Use the promo code 'Julius' for 10% off. Discounts are also available for NSFs, senior citizens and students! </p><p style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923">Julius Caesar in Egypt [G] (sistic.com.sg)</a> </p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-59199758807914793052023-07-07T14:18:00.004+08:002023-07-07T14:18:28.424+08:00Handel's Julius Caesar in Egypt - 9 and 10 Sep 2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXk5xV5fnwLck4y5AoYmtanS29R7lXgVP6njuHH7oSqgmStXWmQnw0b6g0XsEwoBGUy1N4SnDzk5L-biDBBmlfrDCHyfpkX4fGiSolHQs1Oz_k300j5hDgFps1Coo0_wUq8gm3HFKr8qVJvh3k0YcDqtgJkk2U3-wNNb0yOxAgvVAd6wcuF3LlOcPQu4/s1924/Vertical%20Banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1924" data-original-width="1238" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXk5xV5fnwLck4y5AoYmtanS29R7lXgVP6njuHH7oSqgmStXWmQnw0b6g0XsEwoBGUy1N4SnDzk5L-biDBBmlfrDCHyfpkX4fGiSolHQs1Oz_k300j5hDgFps1Coo0_wUq8gm3HFKr8qVJvh3k0YcDqtgJkk2U3-wNNb0yOxAgvVAd6wcuF3LlOcPQu4/w413-h640/Vertical%20Banner.jpg" width="413" /></a></div><br /> Super proud to announce <b>The Mad Scene</b>'s upcoming production of Handel's <i>Julius Caesar in Egypt</i>, featuring an international All-Star cast, including <b>Steven Ang</b> (Singapore), <b>Tatiana Konovalova</b> (Russia), <b>Francis Wong</b> (Hong Kong), <b>Chieko Trevatt</b> (Japan/UK), <b>Ashley Chua</b> (Singapore) and <b>Hugo Van Bever </b>(Belgium). Directed by <b>Hawk Liu</b> with musical accompaniment by <b>Francesca Lee</b>. Get your tickets at SISTIC via the link below!<p></p><p><a href="https://sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923?cid=madscene-hmfe-julius0923">https://sistic.com.sg/events/Julius0923?cid=madscene-hmfe-julius0923</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-13772676830335782002023-06-08T22:05:00.005+08:002023-06-08T22:05:33.326+08:00Steven Ang discusses Cycles Concert - 1 July 2023<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx4corUglnDcpYnwQW_9oO1Nn781l564MyfrEUrGE4-U4btn_XROyuL1ZtBcCzHjgIvR32UoQCAe5SSgVVKVw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /><p></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-89979173768692930892023-05-27T13:26:00.003+08:002023-05-27T13:26:34.747+08:00Baritone Franics Wong in Cycles - 1 July 2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Baritone <b>Francis Wong</b> @franciswonghk from Hong Kong says Hi! Hear his rehearsal preview of <i>Let Us Garlands Bring</i> as well. Tickets at link below!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://cycles.peatix.com">https://cycles.peatix.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">#liveperformance #classicalmusic #songcycle #finzi #performance</div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PRNoV7_xcbg" width="320" youtube-src-id="PRNoV7_xcbg"></iframe></div><br /> <p></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com090 Goodman Rd, Singapore 4390531.302993 103.8852073-27.007240836178845 68.7289573 29.613226836178846 139.0414573tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-67205300132971218852023-04-26T21:57:00.005+08:002023-04-26T22:02:48.883+08:00The Mad Scene Music Festival - 29 June to 1 July 2023<p> We at <i><b>The Mad Scene</b></i> are proud to present two exciting concerts with a diverse group of young and experienced talents. Both concerts are at Goodman Arts Centre, 7.30pm. We hope you will check them out. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4KTbZ9y6jfQSHGhyCwN48YhbnZUaCnGWeH5bEdu4DtCz8KVBu0oSHmL7a8qj-D6yrttYHWqq1vXzodAfiKxmepKLtmiq6hpYYQRSMYwRzNM3yOWJPOQPgpVu8yNVChgEARXGrI01KHNqegQ2Y51goSXHw-G9aYWns6ofr3CJNp8JioDIfzSNYU3B/s1499/music%20buffet%20reduced.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1009" data-original-width="1499" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh4KTbZ9y6jfQSHGhyCwN48YhbnZUaCnGWeH5bEdu4DtCz8KVBu0oSHmL7a8qj-D6yrttYHWqq1vXzodAfiKxmepKLtmiq6hpYYQRSMYwRzNM3yOWJPOQPgpVu8yNVChgEARXGrI01KHNqegQ2Y51goSXHw-G9aYWns6ofr3CJNp8JioDIfzSNYU3B/w400-h269/music%20buffet%20reduced.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Click to enlarge</i></div><br /><p>29 June 2023 (Thursday, Hari Raya Haji) - <b><i>A Musical Buffet </i></b></p><p>A musical variety show featuring students and friends of Steven Ang. Click on the link below for the line-up of performers and programme!</p><p><a href="https://mbuffet.peatix.com/view">A Musical Buffet | Peatix</a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORHqBIACET-czToTPNWGN2HuEeYyJkCnM_aV7Sf_KwCzoUmGuk6IWAWjHrpzwlipvMnWNhDSronqPT-o9PBn5SdDrzL8FUo-hHk3v2Wp4V0zsALq1LIQ-MCupt11z1fR5IDwsaRVITEd4SXLuggoDBFLHPP6cXCV97tKS8OcKiDuV0o-FVrUSh9EF/s2126/cycles%20concert.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2126" data-original-width="1559" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORHqBIACET-czToTPNWGN2HuEeYyJkCnM_aV7Sf_KwCzoUmGuk6IWAWjHrpzwlipvMnWNhDSronqPT-o9PBn5SdDrzL8FUo-hHk3v2Wp4V0zsALq1LIQ-MCupt11z1fR5IDwsaRVITEd4SXLuggoDBFLHPP6cXCV97tKS8OcKiDuV0o-FVrUSh9EF/w470-h640/cycles%20concert.png" width="470" /></a></div><p>1 July 2023 (Sat) - <b><i>Cycles </i></b></p><p>Next up, an evening of Song Cycles and Operatic Set Pieces, featuring soloists from Singapore, Hong Kong and Russia. The stars of the evening are Steven Ang, Francis Wong, Lowell Tan, Tatiana Konovalova and Fion Toh, accompanied by Francesca Lee. Check out the link below for full programme which includes arias by the Queen of the Night!</p><p><a href="https://cycles.peatix.com/view">Cycles - An Evening of Song Cycles | Peatix</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-14345519044738433562023-04-25T10:59:00.006+08:002023-04-25T14:02:23.659+08:00Review: Handel’s Messiah by Consonance led by Tom Anderson<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Guest contributor <b>Alison Harvey</b> shares her thoughts on Handel's <i>Messiah </i>by new choral group <b>Consonance</b>, led by <b>Tom Anderson</b>. </div><div><br /></div>
<hr />
<b>Review: Handel’s <i>Messiah </i>by Consonance led by Tom Anderson</b><br />
By <b>Alison Harvey</b><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboOiA23m5wfW8EZvXdw4XbVonIFT2S9JI7wDkvB8Mr_0FxzUGE7Ufp8Vp5CpKxrpRzuvSu2djVFbQvAHNAb68-W0TMHuNw9u5oJHFLyqwrLxf6N2vMqNgWqP7JNd4QqQwsN9LZF_Lq5yqMeVDlc8kXV59KyR4CWBm2sJ_-PvPW22kgxffDatyz_qI/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.47.04%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiboOiA23m5wfW8EZvXdw4XbVonIFT2S9JI7wDkvB8Mr_0FxzUGE7Ufp8Vp5CpKxrpRzuvSu2djVFbQvAHNAb68-W0TMHuNw9u5oJHFLyqwrLxf6N2vMqNgWqP7JNd4QqQwsN9LZF_Lq5yqMeVDlc8kXV59KyR4CWBm2sJ_-PvPW22kgxffDatyz_qI/w360-h640/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.47.04%20PM.jpeg" width="360" /></a></div></div><div><br />
The inaugural concert by the new choral collective <b>Consonance </b>at Victoria Concert Hall on Sunday 23rd of April was a joyous and uplifting performance of Handel’s <i>Messiah</i>. <i>Messiah</i>, being the most - performed choral work in the canon, was potentially an ambitious selection, but Consonance delivered, and the audience left feeling pleasantly revived. The first ever performance of <i>Messiah </i>in 1742 was at Easter, and it seems especially appropriate for Consonance to perform this somewhat over-exposed work at the right time of year and avoid the overcrowded Christmas period.</div><div><br />
The charming preconcert announcements encouraging the audience to avoid coughing (unless in G Major) set the tone for a relaxed professional performance. The Chamber Orchestra played energetically and enthusiastically throughout, and special mention should be made of trumpeter <b>David Marley</b><i> </i>(<i>The Trumpet Shall Sound</i> in Part III) as his bravura trumpet solo was handled with precision and flair. As accompanists to the soloists and singers the musicians were always appropriately balanced and complementary. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgip1PiCCMAGqUaC3_NvPKZ8T5D4OZvvud6Dvyzl0A5PkjvxZyL_lzZZo5GEqJeScMFUuHdasBcU2AsMpfGDlHuQ7Ns4yFh-N1YJY9jJvCRHsEh4Jdcmv5nsmktSEfbZsoBjVU1pKVH5EC5M-E_uJFxpxYl-VfF-fkN_NmWG2GoC8jmd0FWPtdVnJmz/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.52.05%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgip1PiCCMAGqUaC3_NvPKZ8T5D4OZvvud6Dvyzl0A5PkjvxZyL_lzZZo5GEqJeScMFUuHdasBcU2AsMpfGDlHuQ7Ns4yFh-N1YJY9jJvCRHsEh4Jdcmv5nsmktSEfbZsoBjVU1pKVH5EC5M-E_uJFxpxYl-VfF-fkN_NmWG2GoC8jmd0FWPtdVnJmz/w400-h225/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.52.05%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Click to enlarge</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><span><a name='more'></a></span><div><br /></div><div>For the most part, the orchestral ensemble handled the tensions and excitement with precision, crisp articulation and beautifully observed dynamics. However the lower strings occasionally sagged in pitch and tempo, especially in fast-moving pieces such as <i>All We Like Sheep</i>. Nonetheless, these minor flaws did not affect our enjoyment of the music.</div><div> <br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8Fp9qaetCMpqF_0Bpdtqy985xTLcu_ZpIiXgBUCneWgDIAHDkzBK9F9I8sZabakwJq3In2GkM1OU90IU_4iP-J3fjFwiIdxu4rtxTOObZJ9sBRi2Pv9ymr698-FmkFEvgVGZsJX9DqwNosv9cahBtROi1NpJY0eX_3sAdpTLFQ473AXlWzsv0Gh_/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.46.53%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="1600" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8Fp9qaetCMpqF_0Bpdtqy985xTLcu_ZpIiXgBUCneWgDIAHDkzBK9F9I8sZabakwJq3In2GkM1OU90IU_4iP-J3fjFwiIdxu4rtxTOObZJ9sBRi2Pv9ymr698-FmkFEvgVGZsJX9DqwNosv9cahBtROi1NpJY0eX_3sAdpTLFQ473AXlWzsv0Gh_/w400-h194/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.46.53%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div>Listening to <i>Messiah </i>can feel like a Greatest Hits compilation and it was heartening to feel genuine passion in the chorus as they offered stirring renditions of well-known works (such as <i>And the Glory of the Lord</i> and <i>O Thou that Tellest Good Tidings to Zion</i>). In general, there was excellent balance between the different choral voices, allowing the textures of the fugal sections to shine through, despite occasional weaknesses in the basses and the overall strength and brightness of the soprano voices. Technically difficult running passages (<i>And He Shall Purify</i>) were handled with precision; Tom Anderson clearly runs a tight ship. Overall, the articulation in the chorus was precise and accomplished, the harmonies and unisons filling the hall at times with a wall of sound.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MxqeEE2waKFvbn5CTYzSHIMdJ_8UiIbzu_a4c-38hNDt0D5vamVYq-bwsnQEv6IBfSj6MSNC_LhnB4s4mBXhuM9PNMpJryEf7-OcuAa547a_6qu74pZk6ZvAwQ7XO9G_buv9P6nr12qNLhJgTUTjAhBUpXMPBWuKuo6rnkFuQxeHBf3QJC7jOvxc/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.58.11%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4MxqeEE2waKFvbn5CTYzSHIMdJ_8UiIbzu_a4c-38hNDt0D5vamVYq-bwsnQEv6IBfSj6MSNC_LhnB4s4mBXhuM9PNMpJryEf7-OcuAa547a_6qu74pZk6ZvAwQ7XO9G_buv9P6nr12qNLhJgTUTjAhBUpXMPBWuKuo6rnkFuQxeHBf3QJC7jOvxc/w400-h225/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.58.11%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbDDRnLA7psnvMJTlmfAIt9vwAAjG1392iDaApYCKsC-SAozgy6BjBP61TmswKK3bp71zzI4g_3EHoRs3ep3qOaEf2K6uwC5NlaErKkOPWrSdsyLnAyDHeQJbT-afLeodiDamLjtawL3qXsCxiHP7fFoMfKf2-Y07qzPPyM9fpKKdhHyunzi5hdh9/s1600/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%2010.22.25%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbDDRnLA7psnvMJTlmfAIt9vwAAjG1392iDaApYCKsC-SAozgy6BjBP61TmswKK3bp71zzI4g_3EHoRs3ep3qOaEf2K6uwC5NlaErKkOPWrSdsyLnAyDHeQJbT-afLeodiDamLjtawL3qXsCxiHP7fFoMfKf2-Y07qzPPyM9fpKKdhHyunzi5hdh9/w400-h180/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%2010.22.25%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div>
The soloists shone. <b>Joyce Lee Tung</b> sang with great clarity and control across the whole register. Her diction was beautifully precise, and every note showed real brilliance of tone. <b>Jonathan Charles Tay </b>sang with warmth and bright rich tone. <b>Alvin Julian Tan</b> sang with assurance and great depth, with clear diction. <b>Rebecca Chellappah</b> has a mellifluous gentle voice contrasting with the bright tone of the soprano.</div><div> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTXhCUVKmQFKDVnCZCKEfnVuuQqvO7WkXDD93sD85DmuxBk4z06BOWf8_VIC5DSgglQ4ssX-LLKvOJpQTkM0uW6RAb1e7YqShXTjPa-0z9pf8RvJIpiCh2H9QF0_JaVlIrvixHDRpwh1JOHBcIlwm8LzBBfisVHHqh-hO-rTS63WbtbVNs7jnZZTb/s1024/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.47.05%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTXhCUVKmQFKDVnCZCKEfnVuuQqvO7WkXDD93sD85DmuxBk4z06BOWf8_VIC5DSgglQ4ssX-LLKvOJpQTkM0uW6RAb1e7YqShXTjPa-0z9pf8RvJIpiCh2H9QF0_JaVlIrvixHDRpwh1JOHBcIlwm8LzBBfisVHHqh-hO-rTS63WbtbVNs7jnZZTb/w400-h300/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-04-24%20at%209.47.05%20PM.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div></div><div><br />
An excellent debut for this new ensemble and we should certainly look forward to future performances.</div><div><br /></div>
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<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div></div></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-373156333584856542023-04-24T12:19:00.000+08:002023-04-24T12:19:08.992+08:00Verdi's Macbeth in Singapore on VideoThe full performance of Verdi's Macbeth is now available for streaming on our YouTube Channel. Hope you enjoy it. Please liek and subcribe!
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iLQkXx_RmvA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-70876200555018782662023-04-11T12:31:00.002+08:002023-04-11T12:33:03.781+08:00Messiah by Consonance, Tom Anderson - 23 April 2023, 7pm<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3a1t4T-0mjNtPpGkvUM6aEUm9zggetmgjRyNcIBkW-Ac6cV8vzL25pGoP3sPM-q_850_lFKE1iL2WSitW6GvO2QZSY4fUawd-WKibizQHaq07LLD-CHet0fa_Cjs_1vX4xm2ilOvQvD4EZ71hgxW0WafuJljzjKLbLZGjyihDjlnKHCQUG66E9Pox/s1080/Consonance%20Messiah%20Smiling.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3a1t4T-0mjNtPpGkvUM6aEUm9zggetmgjRyNcIBkW-Ac6cV8vzL25pGoP3sPM-q_850_lFKE1iL2WSitW6GvO2QZSY4fUawd-WKibizQHaq07LLD-CHet0fa_Cjs_1vX4xm2ilOvQvD4EZ71hgxW0WafuJljzjKLbLZGjyihDjlnKHCQUG66E9Pox/w400-h400/Consonance%20Messiah%20Smiling.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Handel's <i>Messiah</i> will be performed complete and uncut on by <b>Consonance</b>, a new choral collective led by veteran conductor <b>Tom Anderson</b> and features only experienced singers who have spent time in numerous choral trenches for many years. </p><p>Soloists for the evening are <b>Rebecca Chellapah, Joyce Lee Tung, Alvin Julian Tan</b> and <b>Jonathan Charles Tay</b>. </p><p>Concert will be held on 23 April, 7pm at Victoria Concert Hall. Tickets are available at SISTIC: <a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/handel0423">Messiah - G. F. Handel | SISTIC</a></p><p>Please follow our social media for more information:</p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/consonance.choral/">Consonance – A Choral Collective (@consonance.choral) | Instagram</a></p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090464453723">Consonance: A Choral Collective | Singapore Singapore | Facebook</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-87911836410574709612023-02-22T13:17:00.004+08:002023-02-22T13:17:51.995+08:00My Student Yurie in Frozen at MBS<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AzrwVUzoSJNw-GZ2JZVb7AsTFYLWn4a_nceAgdjYJR-4xHSLeMiRfJrkeN188ULvftEJpU30IR5pDMK_lKloReL1HByehIBukIv3ysrVbK6Chp_Bjgrwc0SjjGsLEt2cCCSm1_gDyEvk7iVSYHNlXjB77HiZ588_4LPx5y-SWPkcJPeLix3W6UgE/s1683/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-02-11%20at%204.04.22%20PM.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1683" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1AzrwVUzoSJNw-GZ2JZVb7AsTFYLWn4a_nceAgdjYJR-4xHSLeMiRfJrkeN188ULvftEJpU30IR5pDMK_lKloReL1HByehIBukIv3ysrVbK6Chp_Bjgrwc0SjjGsLEt2cCCSm1_gDyEvk7iVSYHNlXjB77HiZ588_4LPx5y-SWPkcJPeLix3W6UgE/w410-h640/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-02-11%20at%204.04.22%20PM.jpeg" width="410" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Please check out my student Yurie's performances as Young Elsa in <i>Frozen</i>, currently running at MBS. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Please go to SISTIC for tickets, and contact me at themadscene@gmail.com or 91809453 if you are keen to try out my uniquely fun yet effective brand of singing lessons!</div></div><p><br /></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-31200792190325470592023-01-19T14:46:00.002+08:002023-01-19T14:46:08.427+08:00Piacer d'amor - 11 Feb 2023 (Sat) - a Special Valentine's Concert<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQb4UR79aatbUCsrU4FesDdtlWk5IMxCXPoKbgNpIHJNXqQF9uaVjOFQbwMBwNjE2HLKJmdAITe-9OgKynqXFnNeHa6_r0_CdAiQJfWKDex9uFnCCR0WU6MfqC9vMkDQ3Rr8Kf3RlZSacrNq89o0l_LpVOgYrGmdh7oPuHyvbUqA6973WxgosLXckg/s1123/Poster%20low%20res.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1123" data-original-width="794" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQb4UR79aatbUCsrU4FesDdtlWk5IMxCXPoKbgNpIHJNXqQF9uaVjOFQbwMBwNjE2HLKJmdAITe-9OgKynqXFnNeHa6_r0_CdAiQJfWKDex9uFnCCR0WU6MfqC9vMkDQ3Rr8Kf3RlZSacrNq89o0l_LpVOgYrGmdh7oPuHyvbUqA6973WxgosLXckg/w453-h640/Poster%20low%20res.jpg" width="453" /></a></div><br />So happy to share my Valentine's concert <i><b>Piacer d'amor</b></i> on 11 February 2023, 7.30pm at the Armenian Church of Singapore. This special concert also features the talents of tenor <b>Liew Wee Sing</b>, soprano <b>Sylvie Lin Ziying</b> and mezzo <b>Shania Tan</b>.<p></p><p>Here's a little preview on Instagram: </p><p><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnlgqiWKGBs/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet">https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnlgqiWKGBs/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet</a></p><p><br /></p><p>And get your tickets at Peatix, link below! </p><p><a href="https://piacerdamor.peatix.com/view">Piacer d'amor - A Vocal Recital | Peatix</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-92013713708781673132022-08-19T22:54:00.005+08:002022-08-19T22:54:45.624+08:00Review: New Opera Singapore's 'The Telephone' and 'La Voix Humaine'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicU4A_esmHHCH-Iw-ZUF9ghKGufImaH3x3zsHUaK98nV_tmQ3P6z1mOCaRMqu8-Aq98mri2HgTJ1ni7Lki8hbEllTnJpVAv5cDVOMCKH91KaqYF0rQU8XRYjOujLTONblqaBwoHAKYVNRmvAFH8-ohwe9XWKcsEbsmMFrh9AOK_z_5JhcM7Xm8OKkI/s1194/NOS%20Telephone%20banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="1194" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicU4A_esmHHCH-Iw-ZUF9ghKGufImaH3x3zsHUaK98nV_tmQ3P6z1mOCaRMqu8-Aq98mri2HgTJ1ni7Lki8hbEllTnJpVAv5cDVOMCKH91KaqYF0rQU8XRYjOujLTONblqaBwoHAKYVNRmvAFH8-ohwe9XWKcsEbsmMFrh9AOK_z_5JhcM7Xm8OKkI/w400-h186/NOS%20Telephone%20banner.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p><b>New Opera Singapore</b> (NOS) presents a double-bill of contemporary operas centred around the telphone, starting with a comic piece, Menotti's <i>The Telephone</i>, and a serious one, Poulenc's <i>La Voix Humaine. </i>It is directed by Artistic Director <b>Jeong Ae-Ree </b>and conducted by Music Director <b>Chan Wei-Shing</b>.</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nglcOH3z_95yE6o-1jK2544r5uiHiPVXl3VfoPUyIAjLXESWxlSUYvdfroqNwTudVv5PEirnWHRJ7X89mriB1bkw1YkglitlEl1r8Nrn5d6xpu4du2E5D4egcbc773wJ6Y5ACDXOi-VF6YZ4agzXX6ka8BIRYwJO5lbLIpDKh-UvqqDagN5CL851/s711/NOS%20double%20bill%203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="711" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nglcOH3z_95yE6o-1jK2544r5uiHiPVXl3VfoPUyIAjLXESWxlSUYvdfroqNwTudVv5PEirnWHRJ7X89mriB1bkw1YkglitlEl1r8Nrn5d6xpu4du2E5D4egcbc773wJ6Y5ACDXOi-VF6YZ4agzXX6ka8BIRYwJO5lbLIpDKh-UvqqDagN5CL851/w400-h309/NOS%20double%20bill%203.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>Menotti’s one act chamber opera tells the story of Ben, a gentleman eager to make his proposal, and Lucy, his clueless girlfriend. Unfortunately, the proposal keeps getting interrupted by seemingly endless rings of calls from the telephone, to Ben’s increasing frustration and Lucy’s persistent oblivion.</p><p>Lights go up for <i>The Telephone</i> on a modern living room with colorful mod furniture and a couple of fun oversized props, including the titular telephone. The music is very melodic and singable, with subtle chromatic shifts to highlight certain emotional themes, and light coloratura passages to please the canary fanciers. </p><p>Tonight’s performance featured <b>Moira Loh</b> and <b>Min Seong Kang</b>, with <b>Lara Tan</b> and <b>Keane Ong</b> alternating later in the run. They gave engaging, lovely comic performances, with crisp diction and well-projected voices, good comic timing and chemistry. It was a lovely musical sitcom that is nonetheless relatable to modern audiences as well.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZMhatQfPWKqJzDHEmH_V5gy0Il95gf0dee6pXVR04Z5WCqyv8JZJWUyRFYq1YVXngr_zGw5egKxmlCvRKU91moLOifaFh0_e2QxHUz8d7j-AoiUxOibOwRldB53M8zul6xErro8PVbPupCzdVskSSonWfjb39vp2E2GMruivMCKgD8qZcC5nedsF/s750/NOS%20double%20bill%202.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="750" height="355" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZMhatQfPWKqJzDHEmH_V5gy0Il95gf0dee6pXVR04Z5WCqyv8JZJWUyRFYq1YVXngr_zGw5egKxmlCvRKU91moLOifaFh0_e2QxHUz8d7j-AoiUxOibOwRldB53M8zul6xErro8PVbPupCzdVskSSonWfjb39vp2E2GMruivMCKgD8qZcC5nedsF/w400-h355/NOS%20double%20bill%202.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>After the interval, things took the evening on a considerably darker turn with Poulenc’s <i>La Voix Humaine</i>.</p><p></p><p>Performed in an English translation, the opera is a single scene where a woman calls her former lover up the day before he marries another woman, interspersed with calls with a friend and a telephone operator. Musically it is composed in what some would call the ‘boop, beep, squawk’ style of contemporary music - a score composed not with traditional harmony or melody in mind but features unusual shifts in harmony and dynamics in line with the protagonist’s speech patterns and emotional journey.</p><p>NOS’s staging complements Poulenc’s abstract musical style in its visual language. It begins with a video projection on stage left showing two animated characters performed a modern dance piece. After which <b>Victoria Song-Wei Li</b>, in a slinky satin nightgown, delivered a tour de force of a performance, capturing the audience’s attention for a full 40 minutes with no co-performers to play off of. She gave a beautifully sympathetic portrayal of the protagonist in her manic state, alternating sudden shifts between elation and desperation with natural ease. Vocally the voice projected well once it’s warmed up, with clean, crisp diction and a nuanced palette of vocal colours.</p><p>Overall it was a beautiful evening of contemporary works, with capable young artists at the helm. Which small in scale, New Opera Singapore's production of these chamber operas took us on a full emotional journey from laughter to tears. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_3sSQELstnb3gX9NJ3X_WDLvnKKotO2FCNfFUxoZgTuJqXmm-OVRXBPeguhNXPTEBZl19twWENhIA0dWAfChflahjBghBNO7LY8q80E4HMP4seQD8I35IYSSmRFgxNaIIpqNV17iwqqgJA7QIZ6nGocsRR2xzJp89l0jD1sCHhpb-XfXHLZD07eZ/s828/299605488_453972486450018_1461802988196185818_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="828" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv_3sSQELstnb3gX9NJ3X_WDLvnKKotO2FCNfFUxoZgTuJqXmm-OVRXBPeguhNXPTEBZl19twWENhIA0dWAfChflahjBghBNO7LY8q80E4HMP4seQD8I35IYSSmRFgxNaIIpqNV17iwqqgJA7QIZ6nGocsRR2xzJp89l0jD1sCHhpb-XfXHLZD07eZ/w400-h300/299605488_453972486450018_1461802988196185818_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>More shows to come this weekend (19-21 August). Check out <a href="https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/tele0822">https://www.sistic.com.sg/events/tele0822</a> for details. </p><p>There is also a free outreach performance of <i>The Telephone</i> for kids 14 and under on 21 August, <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf13GQx1uF76vT87MHkSQqgBbpC10G_1KQQ4VA-2Q42JeasWg/viewform" target="_blank">click here for more information and to sign up.</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-76722664182550209242022-03-31T17:42:00.005+08:002022-03-31T17:42:31.929+08:00Verdi's Macbeth Interview on The Flying Inkpot (Classical Music)<p><span data-offset-key="1ng7r-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Feeling very chuffed and privileged to be interviewed by Derek Lim from </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The</span><span data-offset-key="1ng7r-2-0" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> Flying Inkpot Classical. we had a lovely discussion about the upcoming production of Verdi's Macbeth. Check it out via the link below! </span></p><div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="30s65" data-offset-key="26h78-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="26h78-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiroGHExWn4YMVkqZEqMgaO2SFRixzrUcg5O6SOMi-WDsJBxKQ1jmvw5cSdAiCRlyr6QYr87oyT4vFcPjleNWBJZrJ4qGi9qnqsIRJYiKdYld9e7mkG27sAujiiflKA0_j9vpX_qCJL1gcfvBgugE0yTB0EoZehTyz4m0evc1oMFLdzXU9lI6B5dTFL/s832/Flying%20Inkpot%20Screengrab.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="832" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiroGHExWn4YMVkqZEqMgaO2SFRixzrUcg5O6SOMi-WDsJBxKQ1jmvw5cSdAiCRlyr6QYr87oyT4vFcPjleNWBJZrJ4qGi9qnqsIRJYiKdYld9e7mkG27sAujiiflKA0_j9vpX_qCJL1gcfvBgugE0yTB0EoZehTyz4m0evc1oMFLdzXU9lI6B5dTFL/w400-h318/Flying%20Inkpot%20Screengrab.png" width="400" /></a></div><span data-offset-key="26h78-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" /></span></div></div><div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="30s65" data-offset-key="3n5ir-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: "Segoe UI Historic", "Segoe UI", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3n5ir-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;"><span class="py34i1dx" style="color: var(--blue-link); font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.flyinginkpot.com/2022/03/double-double-toil-and-trouble-macbeth">http://www.flyinginkpot.com/2022/03/double-double-toil-and-trouble-macbeth</a></span></div></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-16084041587758345402022-03-28T20:26:00.003+08:002022-03-28T20:26:24.762+08:00The Mad Scene LIVE | Ep. 3 with Tatiana Konovalova and Hawk Liu | Macbeth Pre-Show Talk Please welcome director <b>Hawk Liu</b> and soprano <b>Tatiana Konovalova</b> on Episode 3 of <i>The Mad Scene LIVE</i>, as we offer a pre-show talk for our production of Verdi's <i>Macbeth </i>on 23 April 2022!
<div><br /></div><div>Part 1:</div><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/21P_7ak8Y8Q" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>Part 2: Our co-star Hugo van Bever (Banquo) drops in to chat about our show! </div><div><div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZRL481MXFxQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>Part 3: A special preview of our upcoming performance:</div><div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W3NOxlJqS60" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Tickets are available at Peatix:</div><div><a href="https://verdismacbethsg.peatix.com">https://verdismacbethsg.peatix.com</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Check out our official photoshoot:</div><div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.490706222708174&type=3">https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.490706222708174&type=3</a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-61000310866830497982022-03-21T14:07:00.006+08:002022-03-21T14:07:56.172+08:00The Mad Scene LIVE - Macbeth Pre-Show Talk with Tatiana Konovalova and Hawk Liu<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjm391-kb_CmVQqKFN-mASl7yXEM44PeJs__Fkv4VV-W7Zdp0-DQqwfO0-e_ivKSBicRTBAMEprtoJKaZlgA6rOER0QVAMnDhFfaJVVleUu3xivJrwpkQqs0EASUMfA-cCLAyDt9n_PKbAmiRqoh-fdA5ps1EH5aQ4PIAD_dKOHDZgoueJPAS7Zqrz1=s1403" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1403" data-original-width="992" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjm391-kb_CmVQqKFN-mASl7yXEM44PeJs__Fkv4VV-W7Zdp0-DQqwfO0-e_ivKSBicRTBAMEprtoJKaZlgA6rOER0QVAMnDhFfaJVVleUu3xivJrwpkQqs0EASUMfA-cCLAyDt9n_PKbAmiRqoh-fdA5ps1EH5aQ4PIAD_dKOHDZgoueJPAS7Zqrz1=w451-h640" width="451" /></a></div><br /> If you are free tonight, please join us on Zoom as we discuss our production and present preview performances! <div><br /></div><div>The Mad Scene LIVE - Macbeth Pre-Show Talk </div><div><br /><div><div>Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85839083865 </div><div>8.25pm </div><div><br /></div><div>Meeting ID: 858 3908 3865 </div><div><br /></div><div>More about Macbeth Opera here:
https://verdismacbethsg.peatix.com</div></div></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-88361485609202433942022-03-08T13:41:00.002+08:002022-03-08T13:41:17.842+08:00Verdi's Macbeth in Singapore - 23 April 2022<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQ1B5V835yB7DRH47KE2ykIM4D3p16do7lahwezvKd27OQZHCscKkrujmMdcdhsKBjS_6CBestwHM0sM2f8YEP4qubHr443fwHtaO4rNhZDtgv1IP3AVvf0dM9WTk2r4x-b0PntHh0st3yKU33TQafHIFbBlxUqLxwVedbDVz-zPtsuXpHzP8Yigos=s1269" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1269" data-original-width="893" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjQ1B5V835yB7DRH47KE2ykIM4D3p16do7lahwezvKd27OQZHCscKkrujmMdcdhsKBjS_6CBestwHM0sM2f8YEP4qubHr443fwHtaO4rNhZDtgv1IP3AVvf0dM9WTk2r4x-b0PntHh0st3yKU33TQafHIFbBlxUqLxwVedbDVz-zPtsuXpHzP8Yigos=w450-h640" width="450" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Mad Scene Productions presents an abridged production of Verdi's and Shakespeare's classic, featuring <b>Steven Ang</b> and <b>Tatiana Konovalova</b> as the titular couple, <b>Hugo van Beever</b> as Banquo, <b>Jonathan Charles Tay</b> as Macduff, <b>Isaac Tan</b> as The Prophecy (representing the witches) and <b>Dennis Lin </b>as Malcolm. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tickets and more information via Peatix. Hope to see you there! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://verdismacbethsg.peatix.com">https://verdismacbethsg.peatix.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-13671014720604840442022-01-01T13:25:00.001+08:002022-01-01T13:25:05.324+08:00Use Your Tummy Official Music VideoI am filled with happiness to share my latest artistic adventure – the music video of my song <i>Use Your Tummy</i>! <div><br /></div><div> Filmed at <b>Madison Academy of Music</b> with some of my best kids (ironically for a song about kids behaving badly), this song and video is a humorous reflection of the pains and rewards of being a music educator.
It's my first time editing a narrative video like this, I'm sure you can spot many rookie mistakes but I hope the final product is still entertaining nonetheless. </div><div><br /></div><div>Special thanks to <b>Samantha Marie Chan</b> for helping with the filming, <b>Yana, Anoushka, Yun Yang, Yun Yu </b>and <b>Aoife</b> for your participation, and <b>Morgan Law</b> once again for producing the music with me.
Please enjoy the video, I hope it'll bring you a laugh in the new year! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NQRCVqPg1Bs" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-26079786306366858742021-10-20T13:30:00.005+08:002021-10-20T14:45:36.776+08:00The Mad Scene LIVE | Episode 2 with special guest Lowell Tan<p> Our special LIVE interview with soprano <b>Lowell Tan</b> is out! Hope you'll enjoy it! </p><p>Part 1:</p>
<div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/heelaH5SveI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Part 2:</div><div><br /></div> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/heelaH5SveI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Part 3:</div><div><br /></div> <iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qv_fWHJl4Ag" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe><div><br /></div><div><div>For our 2nd episode of The Mad Scene LIVE, please welcome our special guest, Singaporean soprano extraordinaire Lowell Tan! </div><div><br /></div><div>Based on the popular arts e-zine The Mad Scene from Singapore comes a talkshow interviewing performance arts personalities in Singapore and beyond, particularly in the fields of opera, theatre and classical music. </div><div><br /></div><div>Tips/Donations</div><div><br /></div><div>The Mad Scene does not receive public funding for our brand of arts promotion. If you have enjoyed this show, please consider sending a tip via PayPal. If will help us cover the cost of the show and encourage us to do more in future.</div><div><br /></div><div>https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/StevenAngOpera </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Find Steven Ang on:</div><div><br /></div><div>Instagram: </div><div>https://www.instagram.com/stevenangopera </div><div><br /></div><div>Facebook:</div><div>https://www.facebook.com/StevenAngOpera </div><div><br /></div><div>The Mad Scene Group:</div><div>https://www.facebook.com/groups/133788533323149 </div><div><br /></div><div>Official Website:</div><div>http://stevenangopera.com</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Brought to you by The Mad Scene:</div><div>http://themadscene.com</div><div><br /></div><div>#opera #sgopera #Singapore #theatre #performingarts</div></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-51833866491493693542021-08-25T20:08:00.009+08:002021-08-27T13:22:47.133+08:00' Songs Of Hope & Yearning' in Review<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JvkyE4Ntf7F0zJD30-DALN-gZfSIVqIoLZQOuhwdDzyB5Z3NjrY_biFgiVWyI17Iwf0UPOV9GZ5U3LhLcDUxmqFPiuyFfPDX6qQWqRuCab9en6RSTk18nREduiJWoL69fnudC7oivj0/s725/photo_2021-08-25_04-23-31.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="725" height="325" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_JvkyE4Ntf7F0zJD30-DALN-gZfSIVqIoLZQOuhwdDzyB5Z3NjrY_biFgiVWyI17Iwf0UPOV9GZ5U3LhLcDUxmqFPiuyFfPDX6qQWqRuCab9en6RSTk18nREduiJWoL69fnudC7oivj0/w400-h325/photo_2021-08-25_04-23-31.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><b><p><b><br /></b></p>By Jeremy Lee</b><p></p><p>22 Aug, 2021</p><p>If one wants to perform “live” amid a pandemic, persistence is a requirement, especially if it involves singing in Singapore.</p><p>When 4 friends decided to put on a vocal recital in 2020, they probably didn’t foresee that their dream would be postponed a few times, thanks to Covid-19 restrictions imposed by the authorities.</p><p>On Sunday, 22 August - almost a year from their initial date - it finally took place with the title <i>Songs Of Hope & Yearning</i>, possibly an inadvertent reflection of our collective desire to be free from this pandemic.</p><span><a name='more'></a></span><p><br /></p><p>As the audience sat down in the cosy VOS@Adelphi studio and held the programme booklet in their hands, it would’ve been clear that a lot of thought was put into this show.</p><p>First of all, the very fact that a physical programme booklet (which included lyrics!) was given out in the first place is a rarity, in these days of QR codes and e-programmes.</p><p>In it was laid out a story that tied together the songs we were about to listen to, painstakingly crafted to fit the thoughtfully curated music - a selection of classical, musical and traditional pieces that were seemingly disparate but flowed remarkably smoothly.</p><p>The solos gave each performer -- 4 of them ran the gamut of male voices from bass to countertenor -- a chance to shine, which each man seized admirably.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_2WlaZVDB0c71Yalz9rLrkuVC1kA_e0NxU12jsnws-IX0d3qUtgZKD7fUmOnOVZu6MSe8T076g1qZjZyTWDpPpA06KCAfaW41JILH48TQLy81K7Gh8pmrqwL11ejm0Z5JmAIeAdgeGU/s1600/Hope+and+Yearning+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="777" data-original-width="1600" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_2WlaZVDB0c71Yalz9rLrkuVC1kA_e0NxU12jsnws-IX0d3qUtgZKD7fUmOnOVZu6MSe8T076g1qZjZyTWDpPpA06KCAfaW41JILH48TQLy81K7Gh8pmrqwL11ejm0Z5JmAIeAdgeGU/w400-h194/Hope+and+Yearning+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Thus, each singer had their highlight: <b>Dennis Lin</b> playing the melodica like a dream and vocally nailed the sublime B-flat in the tricky <i>Till I Hear You Sing</i>, <b>Tan Kian Wee</b>’s soaring melodies in heartwarming dialect, <b>Jireh Koh</b>’s effortless switching from bass in one song to countertenor in another, and <b>Law Kai Xiang</b>’s capable classical confections.</p><p>But where they excelled on their own, the singers showed that they’re good together as well. On ditties like the 4-part version of Leonard Cohen’s <i>Hallelujah </i>and closing number <i>Auld Lang Syne</i>, the harmonies blended appealingly.</p><p>Incidentally, the arrangement for <i>Hallelujah </i>was a group effort started by Jireh with input from the rest, while <i>Auld Lang Syne</i> and <i>Edelweiss </i>were specially arranged by Bernard Lee - these creations another indication of the effort that went into this production and how much it represents the collective.</p><div>The only quibble was that the concert was too short. Just as we became immersed in their world, we alas had to leave it too soon.</div><p>However, what the audience would’ve taken away is a sense that we were fortunate -- to be able to behold the passion and blossoming artistry of young musicians, even as the authorities continue to restrict activities that involve expulsion of airborne droplets.</p><p>Hopefully, pandemic situation permitting, this won’t be the last time we’ll hear Singapore’s answer to Il Divo!</p><p><br /></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-66242988780125129522021-08-11T20:09:00.005+08:002021-08-19T17:02:55.333+08:00The Mad Scene LIVE | Ep.1. Hosted by Steven Ang Featuring Special Guest Martin Ng<div style="text-align: left;"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/d3pAHoxRjqs" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><b>The Mad Scene LIVE | Episode 1 | Hosted by Steven Ang with special guest Martin Ng</b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Based on the popular arts e-zine The Mad Scene from Singapore comes a talkshow interviewing performance arts personalities in Singapore and beyond, particularly in the fields of opera, theatre and classical music.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><b>Tips/Donations</b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">The Mad Scene does not receive public funding for our brand of arts promotion. If you have enjoyed this show, please consider sending a tip via PayPal. If will help us cover the cost of the show and encourage us to do more in future.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/StevenAngOpera " target="_blank">https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/StevenAngOpera </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><b>Find Martin Ng on:</b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Facebook: </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/liricarts " target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/liricarts </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Instagram:</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lirica.arts " target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/lirica.arts </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">YouTube:</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFEdJa34TIMaPRYiaEIQ9GA " target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFEdJa34TIMaPRYiaEIQ9GA </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><b>Find Steven Ang on:</b></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Instagram: </span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/stevenangopera " target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/stevenangopera </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Facebook:</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/StevenAngOpera " target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/StevenAngOpera </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">The Mad Scene Group:</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/133788533323149 " target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/groups/133788533323149 </a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Official Website:</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="http://stevenangopera.com">http://stevenangopera.com</a></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;">Brought to you by The Mad Scene:</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #030303;"><span style="font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: 0.2px;"><a href="http://the-mad-scene.blogspot.com " target="_blank">http://the-mad-scene.blogspot.com </a></span></span></div></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-85803975973576680812021-07-27T14:42:00.004+08:002021-08-05T13:16:37.368+08:00The Mad Scene LIVE - 27 July 2021<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LFFxmPTKdAX0TttZ06nff_W0sVv6rIMa6dks6xWIjQCmN9ISAI2faVFC3mH4LZVJnEBkNGlJylK6ZiUuSa8t0MIp1kgNf2AZoAv8b8_u_Eu_kkT7w-pEniHczo5euIPcUqVFhlU5msY/s914/Show+poster.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7LFFxmPTKdAX0TttZ06nff_W0sVv6rIMa6dks6xWIjQCmN9ISAI2faVFC3mH4LZVJnEBkNGlJylK6ZiUuSa8t0MIp1kgNf2AZoAv8b8_u_Eu_kkT7w-pEniHczo5euIPcUqVFhlU5msY/w448-h640/Show+poster.png" width="448" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>We are back again! This time in a live talkshow format. I couldn't be happier to have superstar baritone Martin Ng as our first guest. </p><p>The session will be held on Zoom on 29 July 2021, Thursday at 7.30pm. Event is FREE but donations are welcome. Please sign up on the form below if you would like to attend. Hope to see you there! </p><p><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQuO6HxFTzmZeKiUF0LLf2Ntjv3N6OMhvEchx8JSijgRAXEw/viewform">The Mad Scene Live (special guest Martin Ng) (google.com)</a></p>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3945617498931865703.post-48633966197452482632020-12-17T15:07:00.010+08:002020-12-31T17:47:56.191+08:00Commedia! by Baritone Steven Ang<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAixiyGc5DozMJXcicM72u_weQeREsl5Wf1yWof2nT2S2bfE5SZF9Qe_1Fx-KAPZS1ntV6PXtseGEHtforadCVBBlFu2kRuK3pnp_uSL3QSy6W7JFZ2doT5tIkbuN0-mhHNXOkqzLNPc/s2048/Album+Cover.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidAixiyGc5DozMJXcicM72u_weQeREsl5Wf1yWof2nT2S2bfE5SZF9Qe_1Fx-KAPZS1ntV6PXtseGEHtforadCVBBlFu2kRuK3pnp_uSL3QSy6W7JFZ2doT5tIkbuN0-mhHNXOkqzLNPc/w400-h400/Album+Cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am please to share my latest album with you, <i>Commedia!</i>, a collection of arias and songs from comedic operas and musicals. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The music was recorded during the lockdown months of March to July, and getting to make art during this tumultuous period was such a blessing to me. My performance of comedic roles and of scenes in concerts have always received positive feedback, to my gratitude, that I would like to take this opportunity to explore myself in this area. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Please check out the album via the following streaming services:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spotify:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://artists.spotify.com/c/artist/1cgoGJ06IK5Zy1AfgfmWi8/profile/overview " target="_blank">https://artists.spotify.com/c/artist/1cgoGJ06IK5Zy1AfgfmWi8/profile/overview</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Apple Music:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://music.apple.com/us/artist/steven-ang/1436048024" target="_blank">https://music.apple.com/us/artist/steven-ang/1436048024</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">YouTube Music:<br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeFefM_KYio&list=OLAK5uy_nLu0Y4ei_YkGYOuzZBcV8SJBonBLpAZw8">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeFefM_KYio&list=OLAK5uy_nLu0Y4ei_YkGYOuzZBcV8SJBonBLpAZw8</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Check out my album launch concert on 27 December, 7.30pm Singapore time! Featuring special guest Zoey Lee. It's going to be a ball! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifUXE9xTzgOnl4BPPFsnj2_Oabdod9TTNEUf5AVr-M1rRjvBPBHpIyVI7gHQpEC0vIHqNrs76ulLtajjiE-t7HIkx7c3_RsBWSQTZO0X6LUccnsEmeFkdvWYxWu88bspFNY_oshn8RtQ/s1200/FB+Banner+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgifUXE9xTzgOnl4BPPFsnj2_Oabdod9TTNEUf5AVr-M1rRjvBPBHpIyVI7gHQpEC0vIHqNrs76ulLtajjiE-t7HIkx7c3_RsBWSQTZO0X6LUccnsEmeFkdvWYxWu88bspFNY_oshn8RtQ/w400-h209/FB+Banner+2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" frameborder="0" height="314" scrolling="no" src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=314&href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FStevenAngOpera%2Fvideos%2F386798319079868%2F&show_text=false&width=560" style="border: none; overflow: hidden;" width="560"></iframe></div></div></div>Stevenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09547241358507263434noreply@blogger.com0