This week I am writing to you from Montreal where I am in rehearsals for Montreal Opera’s production of Rigoletto. I am very pleased to have been asked to conduct the opening production for their exciting 2010-2011 season. Artistic Director, Michel Beaulac and General Director, Pierre Dufour have assembled a marvelous international cast including Anthony Michaels-Moore as Rigoletto, David Pomeroy as the Duke, Sarah Coburn as Gilda, Ernesto Morillo as Sparafucile, and Lauren Segal as Maddalena. The remainder of the cast comprises very talented young artists from Montreal Opera’s Atelier excellent training program.
This current week is a grueling schedule starting with Monday having not only two orchestra note reading sessions but also a 4-hour piano tech rehearsal at night, followed by another orchestra rehearsal Tuesday morning and the Sitzprobe Tuesday night! Its a good thing the conductor is not needed Wednesday until the evening rehearsal so I can catch up on some sleep! During the day, the Stage Director, Francois Racine, is busy with the Lighting Designer setting the lighting cues.
I am really enjoying this experience and I have high hopes for opening night!
Performances are September 25, 29, October 2, 4, 7, and 9.
Tyrone Paterson 