The Opera

Well, for the first time in my life, I attended the opera on Thursday evening. It was the Barber of Seville. Not knowing the story in english certainly makes listening to them sing it in Italian that much more difficult. To be honest, I probably got 5 words during the entire 2 1/2 hours!! They handed out a sheet (in english) at the beginning to give a synopsis of the show. It was such a soap opera, convuluted story that I am not sure it helped me any. But I did enjoy it nonetheless.

To be in a building that is several hundred years old with major artwork all around you and people singing opera in period style clothing is just something that one cant help but enjoy, regardless of the language.

Of course, I now know where the song Figuero comes from! The Barber was actually very good in his role--expressive and quite the voice. I have to admit, however, that the only other time I heard the song Figuero being sung was by Bugs Bunny in one of his cartoons!

So, there you have it, I am by no means an afficianado or even a little bit cultured but I can highly recommend a visit to the opera if you have a chance.