I spent much of October and November as Company Manager of Ireland's National Opera Company. The challenge was considerable.
Puccini's final masterpiece, Turandot, calls for huge forces and there are only a handful of singers in the world who can sing these demanding principal roles. Add to that a chorus of Chinese students flown in specially to augment Opera Ireland's chorus, the RTE Concert Orchestra at its very best, the wonderful set designs by Paul Keogan, and it's not surprising the entire run of performances was sold out even before opening night.
Jake Heggie's dense and lyrical opera Dead Man Walking brought with it a different kind of challenge. An intense evening of emotional theatre which had a profound impact on many who attended the performances, those that left the Gaiety theatre with tears in their eyes felt they had personally witnessed the journey of a condemned man. It was a particular honour to have the 'real' Sister Helen Prejean with us on the opening night, whose down-to-earth character and selfless dedication touched everyone who met her.
Congratulations to all who made the season a success: to Charlotte, Marcus, Stefania, Mari, Warren & Brian; to Garry & Anne, both amazing stage managers; to the cast and chorus, the orchestra led by two wonderful Maestri Bruno. And to Dieter Kaegi for his continued vision and inspiration.
Here's a photo of me in my cameo role as The Prince of Persia.
There's no such thing as a small part - only a small actor!!
Niall