EMAIL FROM MS. JENNIFER UY

Many thanks to you and the bloggers for keeping an open heart and mind to the recent production of La Boheme at the CCP.

This was really a labour of love stemming from the artistic and production sides of this Opera.

It was wonderful to see how interested and open the bloggers were on La Boheme.

I had personally wanted to thank you all after the October 1st tech run but was held back after the run through to work out some details with the wardrobe and stage depts.

By the time I had finished, the house lights were all off and the door leading from backstage to the CCP Main lobby had been locked.

Please do extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who came that night and to those who continually returned and eventually watched the show(s).

This is a big leap for Opera. The melding of a traditional form of art and new media.

I’ve always said these are exciting times for the Opera. Thanks for helping make this one of the most memorable productions I’ve been part of, to date.

Sincerely,

Jennifer Uy
Mimi

And, FYI, I’ve posted your comment in this post instead of the other one so that more people can read it.

Thank you.

Immediately after Act 1 of “La Boheme”, at least 20 people left the theatre. Some went straight to the parking lot. While others, Filipinos and foreigners alike, went straight to the table (where the programs were sold) to express our disappointment and frustration. We simply could not hear the opera. With the exception of Rodolfo, one can barely hear the rest of the characters. Only Rodolfo’s soaring high notes that made an impression. This would have surely been a goose bump moment had there been a sound system.

The lack of acoustic enhancement was the tragic mistake. It is mind boggling to me that the Philippine Opera Company did not take careful measures to ensure the enjoyment of the first ever, full length opera with an all Filipino cast.

It was also quite annoying to see some characters dressed as if they were appearing in “Rent”. Layers of clothing, beanies and scarves were worn while they huddled in front of a fire. Seriously, it never gets that cold in Manila. The set design was a very poor and uninspired version of the “Rent”set design.

Whenever I watch an opera, I am prepared to hear magnificent voices, spectacular sets and grand costumes. Now, take the period costumes away and you are left with what looks like a run-through or rehearsal for an opera. I am not saying they need to be in evening gowns or showgirl costumes. But they could have at least given it more thought.
Rodolfo and Mimi’s outfits in Act 1 were beyond horrendous. Being Bohemian does not mean being “baduy” or devoid of style. In fact, the Bohemian style has even inspired haute couture.

Only three things were praise worthy of the October 4 performance: Rodolfo, Musetta and the video backdrop.

I immediately texted everyone I knew of this utter waste of time. Many had planned to go on the last night but opted not to because they have received similar warnings from other victimized friends.

La Boheme: Because Love has Puccini for a Soundtrack

o di ba?

Fritz, the gloating and bowing are well deserved… The use of the La Boheme posters are just phenomenal!! *clap clap*