Hollywood Help For Paranormal Make-Up

Paranormal Playhouse requires some serious make-up work, so we knew we had to pull in some big guns to see our vision come through.

Lyn Marie has been fortunate enough to follow her bliss across the country in pursuit of furthering her life both professionally and artistically.  Her drawings, paintings, and sculptures have been shown internationally and have found homes with stars of both theatre and film.

 

At the tender age of 5 her grandfather took her to see “The Creature of the Black Lagoon” which began an odd love affair with a world of not so cuddly creatures.  After encasing her younger brother in a plaster head cast at the age of 10 to make a “scary mask” she convinced her parents to purchase some instruction books on theatre make-up.  Lyn Marie later attended UW Madison and then spent two years at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design studying sculpture and illustration. This path led ultimately to a freelance job doing restoration work for the “Vision of Jim Henson” a touring exhibit paying tribute to one of her most profound influences.  

 

Lyn Marie currently works as a special effects make-up artist and sculptor, creating characters and creatures for Broadway and Movies.  Her artistic hand has lent designs to The Jim Henson Company, Harley Davidson, MGM Films, Universal Studios, and Home and Garden Television.  She has most recently been honored to work with American Idol Taylor Hicks on the National Broadway Tour of Grease as well as on the Civil War Film “Seeing the Elephant”.   Other familiar faces include Richard Chamberlain, Petuela Clark, Rob Reiner, MarkHamill, Sally Struthers, Rod Steiger and Vice President Al Gore.

You'll be able to see Lyn's work September 27 - 29 in Fresco Opera Theatre's Paranormal Playhouse. Fresco Opera Theatre - voted BEST OF MADISON 2013 in Madison Magazine!

 

http://overturecenter.com/production/paranormal-playhouse

 

 

Don't Blink This Friday The 13th....

You may miss it... #paranormalplayhouse

www.frescooperatheatre.com

Can A.R.I.A. Solve The Mysteries Of The Playhouse?

That is the question. 

Death and misfortune are the featured attraction in the Playhouse. The space, abandoned for years, will be opened for the Apparition Investigation Removal Association, and you are invited to witness with your own eyes, their attempt  to find the truth. Who is in the Playhouse? Why are they there? And what are the they looking for...

Paranormal Playhouse is an operatic haunted house / thrill ride. Bring someone to hold on to... 

www.overturecenter.com

www.frescooperatheatre.com

Four Season's Les Miserables: Beauty In Misery

Powerful Finale To The First Act

Is it just me, or is it weird to enjoy something titled "Les Miserables" so much?

As I sat through Four Season's production, all that went through my mind was it's beauty. As previously noted, I am one of the only people on the planet who has never seen Les Miserables. Having the privilege to attend opening night, I am saddened I have waited this long to experience this powerful show.

Assuming most of you who read this are familiar with Les Mis, I will cut to the chase. Full disclosure here: I know many involved in this production. I expected it to be good.

But I didn't expect it to be that good...

The first thing that popped out for me was the clarity and precision of the orchestra. Andrew Abrams and crew were on their game. Not being too familiar with the music, that is what I keyed in on first. Throughout Les Mis, there are gorgeous melodies which the musicians pulled off perfectly.

Eric Moore

And near and dear to my heart, there are the singers. Eric Moore as Jean Valjean conveyed his love and heartache not only through his wonderful voice, but also his wonderful acting.

Equally as powerful in my book was Sierra Naomi as Fantine. I fell in love with her voice as she sang "I dreamed a dream," and was sucked in by her performance.

Rachel Holmes knocked it out of the park as Cosette, and I am not saying that just because she is in Fresco's next production (Paranormal Playhouse). She certainly has one of the best vocal instruments I have heard. Period.

So I know you are probably saying to yourself "wow, that is a lot of gushing... you must be shilling for your friends." At least that is what I would be saying if I were reading this.

Eric Moore and Rachel Holmes

Well I do have some inside information. I know how much the cast and crew love this production. Four Season's was truly overwhelmed by people showing up for the auditions back in the spring. This is a show people long to be in. A show the performers love.

And that is what came out last night. When I would see my friends post on Facebook that this was "their dream come true" or "the role of a lifetime," they meant it by performing as such.

The bottom line is that I am being objective. This was a great performance and if you should make time to see it. There are plenty of opportunities this weekend and next. Maybe you've seen Les Mis a dozen times, or maybe it is new to you. Regardless, Four Seasons Theatre's production of "Les Miserables" sets a high mark.

                                                                                                                                                                       

Master Of The House

http://fourseasonstheatre.com/les-mis/

Jeff Turk





Cosette Preps Me For The Big Show

Rachel Eve Holmes Stars As Cosette In Four Seasons Theatre's Production Of Les Miserables

Being involved with a company like Fresco Opera is great because I get to hang with some really talented people. Rachel Holmes will be staring in our next production, Paranormal Playhouse in September, but first she will be playing "Cosette" in Four Seasons Theatre's production of Les Miserables.

The first thing I asked about was what could I expect, having never seen the production.

"You should expect an epic tale, told completely in song. A story that will move you and make you laugh. It is a story about struggle, poverty, redemption, and forgiveness. It is about everyone having a voice, no matter how poor, young, or seemingly insignificant."

I then asked her about her character Cosette.

"Cosette is a girl who is taken care of by a kind, ex convict named Jean Valjean, who is constantly on the run from Inspector Javert, who spends his whole life working on what he believes is the side of justice. Cosette loves her father dearly, but as she grows older she starts to question his past. When his old life starts to affect her future, she is faced with the need to confront him. In the end Valjean redeems himself by revealing all to the person he loves most."

And what drew you to the Four Season's Production of Les Mis?

I was at "She Loves Me" the night that Sarah Marty first announced the change in the season last year. I could hardly concentrate on the amazing production I was watching because I couldn't believe that I might actually have a chance to sing my dream role! I knew I had to be a part of it, and I am so glad that the company believed I was the right fit!

What about this production? What stands out for you?

"The production is absolutely GORGEOUS! Brian Cowing's vision is simply stunning, and from an angle that I don't believe has been taken before (that is all I will say because I don't want to spoil anything)! The cast is truly (and I don't say this lightly) top notch in every way. I tear up at least once every rehearsal, and have at least one belly laugh! It still touches me, night after night. If it does that to me, having seen it a dozen times by now, I can't wait to see how it will move the audience!"

What is your favorite moment?

My favorite moment: geeze, that is a tough one! I guess if I had to pick, it is Marius' song, when he sings "Empty Chairs". It is so haunting and moving, and gets me every time!

And the last question, which is purely self promotional, What are you doing after this production? Who will you be working for and what will be title of the production be? And can we assume it will be at least as awesome as your experience with Four Seasons and Les Mis?

"Right after this production, I will be burning the candle at both ends to be ready for Fresco Opera Theatre's latest creation, Paranormal Playhouse, coming in September! I will be playing quite a different role here, as the Wailing Woman, complete with scary makeup, noose, and lots of high notes! Spooky! :) I have no doubt that the next show with Fresco will be one for the books! :)"

Look for Rachel in Les Miserables starting this weekend, August 9th - 18th at the Mitby Theater in Madison. Then watch for her in Fresco's production of Paranormal Playhouse at the Overture Center September 27 - 29!

http://fourseasonstheatre.com/

http://www.frescooperatheatre.com/paranormal-playhouse.html

Jeff Turk

 

 

Les Miserables - Comedy Gold Leads To Awful Earworm

The only experience I have with Les Miserables is when George Costanza sings a couple of lines from "Master of the House" in the "New Coat" episode of Seinfeld. That was 20 years ago, so all this time whenever I see an ad with the kid for Les Mis, that Costanzian ear worm enters my head.

I have never seen Les Mis. Not even the movie. So when Four Seasons offered me a couple of tickets for opening night I jumped on it. Obviously Les Mis has been everywhere of late, a revival of sorts generated by the movie no doubt. But I was always leery of that movie. I don't know about those actors singing material written for the stage and for "real singers"... is that too mean?

Luckily for me my first Les Mis experience will be with Four Seasons, the Madison group that has been performing high caliber productions for years. I look forward to opening night on August 9th. To finally experience, all joking aside, one of the more powerful works the stage has seen in modern times.

With all the talented folks involved with this production, I hope to rid myself of that 20 year ear worm once and for all.

Next: One of my favorite singers Rachel Holmes (a featured Fresco singer!) will explain to me what to expect from this production of Les Miserables from Four Seasons Theatre.

http://fourseasonstheatre.com/

Jeff Turk

 

Fresco Opera Theatre - Best Of Madison 2013

 

 

And that is that.

 

Actually, we have a lot of people to thank. Out of the HUGE category of "Best Performing Arts Group," not only were we voted as one of the top three - but we were a write in. You, our fans, had to take the time to go through the ballot and actually write in "Fresco Opera Theatre"... And we think that is saying something in these times where everything is point and click.

 

We also want to thank Madison Magazine for this opportunity. It is a privilege to be a part of this tradition which people look forward to each year.

 

But having said all that, we can be called "best of" all day long, and it won't change our approach or attitude. We have a mission to create original entertainment experiences using traditional opera and original modern stories.

 

Fresco will not be all like, "yeah... we can mail it in because we are the best and now we can go easy." On the contrary. Expect more. Expect bigger. And expect better.

 

And get ready for a wild ride. Paranormal Playhouse, September 27th through 29th at the Overture Center will blow you away. Fresco's goal is to create the best, most memorable operatic theater experience possible. And we will do so.

 

Thanks again for your support!

 

 



Don Giovanni - A High Performance Vehicle

The Madison Opera Cast Of Don Giovanni - A Well Oiled Machine

For those who have never experienced opera, it is a truly amazing art form simply based on the fact that there are so many moving parts that work perfectly together, and so much opportunity for things to go horribly wrong.

Maybe that is why I enjoy it so much... Kind of like NASCAR...amazing precision and timing. And hopefully no crashes (and if you watch racing for the crashes, you probably aren't interested in opera, so you can stop reading now).

When it comes to Madison Opera and Madison Symphony Orchestra, I have enough experience with them to know they will be at peak performance. The singers on stage, the choreography and an elaborate set make for an event that is truly something that needs to be seen to be believed. So many people coming together - each at the top of their game. Like my race analogy, all the moving parts of a high performance car working together for a smooth, fast and flawless ride. And trust me, I have seen plenty of jalopies in my day.



Plenty of Moving Parts - Working Together In Harmony

I was privileged to be a part of the "Blog It / Tweet It" team that Madison Opera put together to cover the final dress rehearsal for Don Giovanni. What struck me immediately was the enormity of the production - the stage was spectacular.

The lights went down and maestro Joseph Mechavich along with the members of Madison Symphony Orchestra started the beautiful prelude that sets the mood for Mozart's masterpiece. Mechavich also provided his skills on the Harpsichord, which added another dimension to the sound.

Kelly Markgraf is Don Giovanni. I don't know Mr. Markgraf personally (although he was very cordial backstage) but I dare say he is not a scoundrel in real life. But this guy IS Giovanni on stage. He could easily seduce me, and I am married with 3 kids. Aside from his obvious looks and stage presence, his voice was wonderful, and that is the point of a lead in an opera, right? Markgraf is the whole enchilada! (well, maybe pizza pie, since this is Italian)

Kelly Markgraf IS Don Giovanni. Really.

The two "Donnas" as I like to call them also made a lasting impression on me. I suppose I have to admit that I am easily swayed by beautiful women who sing well. Call me weird! I truly enjoyed both Elizabeth Caballero and Caitlin Lynch in their respective roles. I am not one of those writers who will get too technical on you. I have a simple test of whether I think something is good. Does it sound good? And there were many times during the evening where I thought to myself "mmmm - that is such a sweet note..."

Rounding out this great cast were Matt Boehler, Nathan Stark, Wesley Rogers, Angela Mannino and John Arnold. I really should point out that they all have fantastic voices (most important in my book) and great stage presence. I would love to get into more detail, but let's face it - this is a blog, and you don't have the attention span if you read blogs. THEY ARE GOOD! GO SEE THIS! (Told you I like to keep things simple)

I thought the social interaction during the performance was a great idea on Madison Opera's part. Being able to tweet with the cast and other tweeters in real time during the performance was very unique. I hope that our activity during the dress rehearsal encourages those who may have been unfamiliar or unsure to give Don Giovanni a tumble.

And to the uninitiated out there, it would be hard to argue that Don Giovanni is a great first opera experience. This particular production from Madison Opera solidifies that claim, as it is solid musically and visually stunning. To our Fresco fans who have never sat through a traditional opera, this comes highly recommended.
 

Lot's 'O Drinking And Tomfoolery

You will only have two chances to see the spectacle that is Don Giovanni. Months of prep and rehearsal is condensed into only 2 performances. And they will be flawless. Like the winning car of the Daytona 500, well timed with a spectacular run to the finish.

Jeff Turk
Fresco Opera Theatre

Do Not Tempt Fate and Wait Until The Last Minute For Tickets


http://www.madisonopera.org/

http://www.frescooperatheatre.com/

https://twitter.com/frescoopera

https://twitter.com/MadOpera

 

 

Opera Pants

The night before the big night... The big show... THE OPERA! And I have a problem that I am sure is not unique to many opera patrons.

What to wear?

My dilemma is finding appropriate listening attire. At home I don't have a problem: undies and a t-shirt are a perfect match for my listening room, but I have a hunch there is a "no pants - no performance" policy at Overture.

Bottom line: I ain't gonna wear no uncomfortable dress pants to something I want to enjoy for 3 hours, such as Madison Opera's Don Giovanni. But I think I found a solution.

I pulled out 2 pair of my best denims - my "church" jeans, if you will. I am leaning towards the Calvins... The just feel better.

Church / Opera Jeans. Worn Only A Couple Of Times Since Washing.

After all, this night is about enjoying wonderful music and theater. And not about pulling the crease of the Brooks Brothers pantalones out of my tender areas during critical passages in the performance.

I am all about the "opera casual" approach with my wardrobe. One less distraction for an evening where all my attention will be focused on the talented musicians performing Mozart's masterpiece. And not my "creases."

JT

The Few...The Chosen... The Fresco Board Of Directors

We are growing as an organization and need more help. At Fresco, we fancy ourselves the "Avengers" of opera - superheroes if you will. And we thought we could take on the world by ourselves...

But delusions of grandeur will only take you so far.

As a result, we are looking for more superheros to join our team. We are creating 4 openings on our Board of Directors.

We know this may be a little unorthodox. You may be thinking "certainly they must know some insiders who could join our team." The answer is yes... but we felt that isn't entirely "Fresco."

We think it is important to open this up to everyone. There are a few qualifications, but only one that is absolutely, undeniably the most important requirement for a position with Fresco.

You must be passionate about our mission - and passionate about the arts. If you aren't, then I will tell you right now, you are not qualified - and therefore not a Fresco superhero.

If you like what we do and want to contribute by becoming a Fresco Board member, then please take a look at this opportunity. We want motivated, passionate people to fill these spots. But keep in mind, there are only 4 open, so don't waste any time if you are interested.

Applications for Fresco Opera Theatre Board Of Directors positions are here:

http://www.frescooperatheatre.com/available-opportunities.html

If you have any questions, please email me at jeff.turk@frescooperatheatre.com. Or call me at (608) 515-4825.

Join the few. The proud. The Fresco Opera Theatre Board of Directors!

Jeff

Jeff Turk
Fresco Opera Theatre
President, Board of Directors

F.O.T. (As cool, if not cooler than S.H.I.E.L.D.)

 

 

http://www.frescooperatheatre.com/available-opportunities.html

A Night At The Madison Opera!

Hey. We just finished up "The Real Divas Of Dane County" and we have been working hard on "Paranormal Playhouse." We could use a breather... And what better way to take a break, than to have someone else perform for us! And give us free tickets! And food!

Fresco is proud to be a part of the blog / tweet team for Madison Opera's production of Don Giovanni, April 26th and 28th at Overture Center. We will be at the dress rehearsal on Wednesday the 24th, to blog, tweet and Facebook play by play coverage, giving you the opportunity to preview what is sure to be another phenomenal production from MO!

And we will try to take lots of pictures. We know some of you like the pictures better than all these "words"...

More info to come in the next couple of weeks, so keep it here!

JT

May I have Just One Minute Of Your Time?

Everyone enjoys opera, but they may not know it.

I love opera, and I am not afraid to tell you about it. I won't mince words - I think it is the greatest art form there is.

Yet I get "looks" when I tell this to some of  the guys at work. I do get more sympathy from the women in the office (bless their hearts)... but even some of them struggle at the thought of  sitting through "opera." How can there be people who don't understand how great it is?

How do I convince these skeptics to try opera?

I talk and talk. Write and write. Post and post. But all of that cannot convey what opera is, and more importantly how it affects you. I know this is an art form everyone can relate to, no matter what their background is. I know opera can touch people who have never experienced opera before! But how do I break the spell of this mysterious and scary word "opera" and it's effects on those non-believers around me?

Then a magical moment happened! Fresco Opera was invited to the Fire and Ice Ball at the Majestic Theater in Madison. We knew this would probably not be a "typical" opera going crowd. But we pursued it, knowing we are not a "typical" opera company. Our mission is to introduce opera to new audiences. The audience at the Majestic that night certainly fit the bill.

Directors Melanie and Frank Cain, along with singer Holly Flack presented a Fresco piece and captured it on tape. And something magical happened.

Give me just one more minute of your time.

Watch the first minute of this video. If you don't think you like opera, I think you will love this. If you love opera, you will witness a response you may have never heard at an operatic performance. This group of people, many of whom were hearing Fresco Opera for the first time, reacted in a way we could only dream about before this event.

One minute. Watch and listen.

PS - This is the Diva Dance from Gaetano Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor: “Il dolce suono”, the mad scene of Act II, Scene 2. You may know it better as the part in "The Fifth Element" where the blue lady sings.


Jeff Turk
Fresco Opera Theatre
www.frescooperatheatre.com

Wanted: Hilda "Dynamite" Brune

Wanted: Cactus Cate

Wanted: Bonny Jo Loco

Wanted: Nellie "Blackjack" Taylor

Help Fresco! Donate & Get An Exclusive Fresco T-Shirt!

As much as we've tried to avoid this, we can't run an arts organization without money. Thankfully through the talents of the Cain's, we are able to run on pretty modest funds but nevertheless, we need a little somethin to bring you Fresco magic!

We would like to give you something in return.  Actually this is kind of a bribe.  You give us 25 bucks, and we will give you a cool T-shirt. You will be helping us out with your contribution and look good, not to mention spreading our propaganda.

Join the Fresco family today!

http://www.frescooperatheatre.com/t-shirts.html

Don't Make The Opera Singer Angry

...As seen here, not only beautiful music can flow out of the pipes of an opera singer scorned...

Keep Singers Where They Belong!

On the stage! 

Leonora, Fresco's Tamer Of The Beasts

Abominable One! Where are you going with your wild anger?

  The voice of humanity won’t tame your tiger will.

  Even through your wild soul, I see a rainbow.

  So quiet and pure, you make my blood flow.

  Come, hope.  May the stars illuminate my goal.

"Abscheulicher! Wo eilst du hin?" from Fidelio by Beethoven