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First day of rehearsals

Rehearsals for Acis and Galatea have officially begun at the Cultural Center.  The picture below is a painting from 1709 (a year after Handel first composed music to set the story of Acis and Galatea), titled “The opera rehearsal.”

Today, as in the 18th century, opera rehearsals always begin at the keyboard.  Singers review music with the conductor in initial rehearsals before blocking is added. Because Conductor Francesco Milioto had already been working with the soloists individually, the first group rehearsal in the Cultural Center ran smoothly and efficiently.

In the afternoon, pre-production meetings revealed a gorgeous set model and costume renderings by designer Chelsea Warren.  She’s busy working with her crew building props, sets, and costumes (photos will follow tomorrow).