Representah! Opera Extravaganza
If you have not yet been blessed with the sugared words of our citizen journalist, the one and only Reuben-the Matrix-Malema, read on. We hope you’ll be encouraged to join his growing Represent fanclub. To all those Opera goers who were lucky to catch the Opera Extrvaganza, share your thoughts with The Matrix please. Sharpile Reubs!
“People’s reactions to opera the first time they see it is very dramatic: They either love it or they hate it, if they love it, they’ll always love it. If they don’t – they might learn to appreciate it, but it’ll never be part of their soul”. These famous words have been immortalized by the screenplay persona of Edward (Richard Gere) in Hollywood`s timeless romantic flick: Pretty Woman (my all time favorite movie – for real!).
Now, more than ever before, I tend to fully agree with the above statement and not because I’m leaning towards my personal opinions about live opera, but simply put: judge not that which thou hath no knowledge of.
On Thursday night Jozi`s patrons of the arts (live and static) came out in their droves, all well groomed and prinked in splendour, glittering and absolutely glamorous in support of this year’s capacity filled gala evening of Opera Africa`s Opera Extravaganza at the Johannesburg Civic Theater – Braamfontein.
The performances were a well orchestrated mixture of professional artists such as Johan Botha and mainly young black and talented stars in the making, with an epic theatrical setting only befitting a royal ball; all was set for a musical journey for the ages. Admittedly as an opera novice – I did not quite understand the whole idea of juxtaposing the Orchestra slap bang! in the front of the performance crew’s stage area, but boy oh boy – what a huge impact that had on the audience’s reaction.
Curtains were raised to a synchronized clapping of hands for the opening performance which I interpreted as an uprising of disgruntled subjects against their fat cat ruling nobles. Funny enough the revolt was led by a regiment of Knight Templars (whom history portrays as sworn protectors and guardians of the royal lineage). The Nobles finally get incarcerated with the lower class braking into a state of uncontrolled jubilation when…Enter the super star Turner trombone: Johan Botha, respected noble man in the Royal courtyard – ordering the immediate release of the Nobility prisoners and returning things to a state of unacceptable “normalcy”.
This act accompanied by the powerful music stirred up people`s emotions and more so that of my confidant: Ms Janica N. Nhlapo who started jerking a tear or two (how I kicked myself for the lack of a hankie!) – I ended up having to oblige with my well-built shoulder for her to lean on. Alas! Not even a well deserved kiss to be had from my gentleman’s gesture!
An anticipated performance by the Bala trio really did live-up to the momentous occasion that all the media hype made their timely appearance to be. I mean apart from being former circular music chart busters, these guys can really hit & impressively hold a high note and do some sexy moves which would have had most full-time exotic dancers dashing for the nearest spot lit corner to hide in shame!
Opera has just captured a faithful new patron in me and if not for the beautiful music, then for the varied emotions that people express once they get engaged with it on a personal level and of course the well over 2 minutes standing ovation which the choristers deservedly received.
For further details visit: http://www.showbusiness.co.za/
Reuben-the Matrix-Malema
