After 24 days of rehearsing Tosca, came the opening night. Over three weeks ago, in the beginning of the project I was really nervous of the premier night. I kept thinking of the timing of everything and solving the mystery: what could possibly go wrong,  … or the 2226 people in the audience. And my 30 sec act opens the Opera. But over a week before I was in ease as we trained and trained together with the orchestra. The massive sound of the orchestra gave a very good feeling about everything, the opera came alive. Everything was different. Also I noticed that there is no room, time or possibility  for nervousness, because I have to consider all the facts which have to be done as standard and trained at the right time.

It has been very interesting to work with the innovative and creative artists. It has been funny to go to the castle to practice and wonder what will be or has been changed today. The modifying of the Opera toward the director’s vision has been a great experience.

I have learned to cope with the improvisation of everyone involved. The best so far has been, an amazing experience to stand in the line beside the international Opera superstars in the ending of the night, as over 2000 people give their “half an hour” standing ovation, giving their highest compliments to the cast. The crowd was going crazy.

What a ride. Honored to be part of something so Savonlinna as the Opera. Six Tosca-shows to go.

Toi-toi-toi.

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Videolink courtesy of Savonlinna Opera Festival