A role in 'Faust' that's just super
Last spring at Opera Coeur d'Alene's fundraiser we successfully bid on an opportunity to be a supernumerary for the upcoming production of "Faust." Supers are extras who stand around holding spears or other objects or walk around the stage or perform any type of silent role in the opera. Typically, they function as part of the set rather than as part of the story. They have no speaking or, thankfully for our woeful voices, no singing parts. After enjoying many operas we have always wondered what it would be like to be part of such a magnificent production; that wishful fantasy is now being fulfilled. There are so many people involved with amazing well-trained voices that have auditioned for and received their parts. But the chance for the vocally disabled to participate means supernumeraries can be on stage. "Faust" here we come!
As we have become involved in Opera Coeur d'Alene's production, we have been surprised to learn how much time is spent at numerous rehearsals! The operatic cast practices their parts many times with continual adjustments to fine tune the performance. Another realization is the fact that the directors, stage manager, conductor and pianist work extra long and hard hours even before appearing at the lengthy rehearsals with their talented performers. Every action by even the supers is meticulously planned.
One of the most appealing aspects we have experienced is the opportunity to meet and listen to the marvelous performers. Without exception, wonderful talent from our local community and principals from elsewhere strive for an exquisite operatic presentation. Many members of the sensational Chorus are local students. There are also some local loyal performers who have appeared in all of Opera Coeur d'Alene's productions. While all of the principals are friendly and professional, most become quiet and reserved as they wait to perform their parts. At the last rehearsal we participated in and observed a run-through performance. Bravo! We executed our supernumerary roles of this stunning opera on stage without error; however, we will continue to try to fine-tune our own minor soundless roles.
It will be sad to think that once Faust is presented for the last time our tiny roles in this extraordinary opera will be complete. Maybe we can bid on a supernumerary role again at next spring's fundraiser. The opera by Charles Gounod is based on a collaboration between Gounod, Jules Barbier and Michel Carre and the libretto is in French.
The Faust legend has inspired many artists. Two of the most famous are Christopher Marlowe's The Tragical History of Doctor Faustus and Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe's Faust. Faust is a marvelously beautiful work in which a frustrated scientist sells his soul to the devil for earthly pleasures. It is the story of the age-old conflict of good and evil with a struggle for the soul of one man, Faust, and by this example, maybe for all of us. While this may seem heavy, even the devil must have a sense of humor. Watching him cavort with Marthe will bring chuckles to all. Power, youth and love permeate the performance. When Opera Coeur d'Alene presents Faust tonight at 7:30 and on Sunday at 2 p.m. at the NIC Theatre we will be part of it. Tickets are available at the NIC Box Office (769-7780).
The next time we watch an opera we will notice and be aware of so many things we never knew before because we were supers. What an opportunity!