First Orchestra Stage Rehearsal
Posted by Donna Racik on 12/10/2006December 8, 2006
Wow! We are beginning to see the bigger picture. Costumes, some make-up, wigs. This morning we will begin stage orchestra rehearsals. That means we will have the orchestra in the pit for the first time. They have their own drama down there by the way. They hum, tap their instruments in very jazzy rhythms and chant “Hashi wu.” This may be the first time that the chorus has singing competition from the orchestra. Speaking of the chorus, they have several numbers that remind me of Puccini’s Turandot. Soaring melodic lines, exalting China and its Emperor. Definitely hum-able.
Since I did mention the costumes previously, I have learned a few things. The costumes with the “leaves” of embroidery belong to our Peking Opera singer, Wu Hsing-Kuo. He begins the opera with traditional singing/intoning, inviting the audience into the story. It’s sort of a variation of the prologue to Pagliacci, Chinese style. Tan Dun told us the other day that the style of the costume is traditional but more what would have been worn in the 19th century. Wu Hsing-Kuo wears a hat that has a face on the back. His costume also is two-sided, so when he turns around, you have a yin/yang message. This hidden-side message is reflected in the chorus as well. They wear helmets in the first act with a face on the back so when they turn around and face upstage there is this very eerie effect of being spied upon. Eyes always watching, seeing…….or the many faces of China?
Seeing our Shaman, Michelle DeYoung, come out in costume was amazing. The robe looks aboriginal, with designs and feathers layered on the sleeves. Her make-up is arresting, using a striking purple on part of her face and neck. She is a soul from another reality, chanting and using a wide range of swooping sounds to bring in the unseen world. It has been an exciting challenge for her to mix her singing with these improvised sounds, as she creates the role for the first time.