I just wanted to thank you all for the fabulous way you've been with Drew. This has been SUCH a GREAT experience for him. Driving home last night (even though it was late and he was starving), he made a comment I thought you would like..... he said, "If Chelsea Opera does something else they need a kid for, I am DEFINITELY trying out!" So I think you've helped nurture into existence something wonderful and I am tremendously grateful and appreciative. Thank you, thank you, THAAANNNKK You!
—Barbara Gomes (mother of an Amahl)
It was a pleasure to attend Chelsea Opera's production of Amahl tonight. I congratulate you for presenting this lovely piece in Spanish for the first time in NYC and for doing it with such love and care and with such high artistic level. Your company is providing a much needed service in NYC, and your work deserves high praise and support.
�?Pablo Zinger, conductor and pianist
Glorious setting. Wonderful voices. Superb music direction, finely tuned orchestra.
�?Jeffrey Klitz, Broadway conductor/music director
As always, I was so happy to be part of the experience in putting together this magical show. You all deserve a HUGE round of applause for the hard work behind the scenes and on stage. It’s so difficult to manage all the details that make a show like this a success �?and make everyone feel welcome and loved, besides! That’s the hallmark of Chelsea Opera!!
�? Larry Beers, volunteer ensemble member
As you know, this is my first time in an opera company's ensemble and the experience has been wonderful---hard-work, time-consuming, and all. I knew in my early years what singing meant to me, but my family was not supportive. It was not until many years later when practicing law that I began to sing again and the profound sadness of what was missing from my heart began to melt away. I and many of my fellow ensemble members know that all three of you are exceptional and extraordinary in your dedication and commitment to your company. We recognize that you are building up a young company and working with limited resources. And, most importantly, we know you are kind and sensitive human beings who do not take us for granted. Personally, I would love to help you and your company in any way I can. In addition to being a lawyer, there is my profound love for opera. So, please feel free to call upon me.
�? Michelle Cuevas, volunteer ensemble member
I want you to know that this past three months have been the happiest months I have had in years. You made me discover things in me that I didn't see before. You expected the best of me and that is something I will never forget. It is hard to believe, but before I came to sing for you I was having second thoughts about where my singing was to take me. Thanks to you, I know where my life and my heart lies. All the hardship and all the sacrifices are worth when you have experiences like this one and you meet people like you!
�? Jorge Ocasio (Spanish Balthazar)
I am so pleased to have been a part of this show - working with all of you has been amazing. Everyone is so talented and terrific, and even though I was a "newbie," I felt a part of the group from the very first rehearsal. Chelsea has such a supportive, welcoming atmosphere, and I know each and every person in the production felt that their time and talents were truly valued and appreciated.
�?em> Traci Schanke, volunteer ensemble member
I was in the audience of Amahl and the Night Visitors tonight -- which was beautifully done and captured of the spirit of the season (I say even though I am Jewish). I found myself rather attracted by the spirit of the Chelsea Opera.
�? Graeme Schranz |
