Opera Talk

Portland Opera's podcast

Tune in to Portland Opera's podcast! Hosted and created by Director of Artistic Planning & Operations Alfrelynn Roberts this new program sets out to confront opera stereotypes, explore the stories and characters, share behind-the-scenes info about upcoming productions, and more. New episodes are released each week here and on Spotify.    

Listen to our teaser.

 

Episode 10:

In this episode, we explore Guiseppe Verdi's Falstaff, a comedic masterpiece brimming with wit, charm, and human folly. Whether you're new to opera or a seasoned enthusiast, this episode offers a bite-sized look into the humor, heart, and artistry that make Falstaff a unique and delightful experience.

Listen here.

 

Episode 9:

Join us for a unique narrated journey into The Juliet Letters and Shakespeare Songs. Contributors Alfrelynn Roberts, Fenlon Lamb, and Marty Hughley will each read their thoughts on the works. This episode offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes perspective on the powerful intersections of text and music that shape this production.

Listen here.

 

Episode 8:

Dive into the artistry behind Howard Blake's Shakespeare Songs and The Juliet Letters by Elvis Costello and the Brodsky Quartet. Former Portland Opera Resident Artist, mezzo-soprano Hannah Penn, and current Portland Opera Resident Artists—soprano Ginaia Black, mezzo-soprano Erin Roth Thomas, tenor Nathaniel Catasca, and baritone Matthew Maisano—join director Fenlon Lamb and conductor DeReau Farrar to explore this unique double feature.

Coming soon!

 

Episode 7:

In this special episode, Sue Dixon, General Director of Portland Opera, delivers a powerful message on the essential role of the arts and the impact of civic engagement. Sue shares her passion for voting, highlighting how each vote shapes the future of cultural institutions and empowers communities to support and protect the arts.

Listen here.

 

Episode 6:

In this episode, we introduce you to more of Portland Opera's exception Resident Artist: soprano Ginaia Black, baritone Matthew Maisano, and returning collaborative pianist Claire Forstman.

Ginaia Black

Claire Forstman

Matthew Maisano

Episode 5
Episode 5:

This episode is the first segment in the Opera 101 series. Alexis Hamilton, Manager of Education and Community Engagement at Portland Opera, tackles common opera stereotypes that often deter audiences from experiencing this incredible art form. 

Listen here.

Episode 4
Episode 4:

In this episode, meet two of Portland Opera's rising stars: Resident Artists Erin Roth Thomas (mezzo soprano) and Nathaniel Catasca (tenor). Hear about their journeys and challenges and get an inside look at being part of this dynamic, 60th anniversary season. Both singers also perform a special piece from their repertoire during the episode. 

Listen here.

Episode 3 - Part 2
Episode 3 - Part 2:

The second part of this episode continues with the cast and creative team of Shizue: An American Story discussing the emotional depth of the production and how the music and narrative intertwine. As a bonus, the cast presents select musical moments of the opera's most moving scenes.

Listen to 00:00:00 to 00:26:23.

Listen to 00:26:23 to 00:50:50

Episode 3 - Part 1
Episode 3 - Part 1:

In the first part of this episode, we explore the creation of Shizue: An American Story with composer Kenji Oh and librettist and director Dmae Lo Roberts.

Listen here.

Episode 2
Episode 2:

In this episode, we sit down with Alexis Hamilton, Portland Opera’s Manager of Education and Community Engagement, to explore the transformative power of opera in our communities.

Listen here.

Episode 1
Episode 1:

Join us for an introduction to our 60th anniversary season and learn more about upcoming productions, programming, and special events.

Listen here.

Opera Talk can also be streamed on Spotify. Don't miss an episode by following us here.

Have a story idea for our podcast? Contact host Alfrelynn Roberts at aroberts@portlandopera.org.