Ask The Phantom

The daroga has introduced me to this very peculiar blogging site. I suppose the idea was to connect me with the world outside the Opera Populaire...

[askoperaghost]

Good evening.

I suppose I can afford more inquiries.

(Ask box open!)

[cruiserweight]

literally what is more fucking raw than in chant the buildup to “the GODS HAVE FORGETTEN THE SONG OF THEIR LOVE” and then a beat and then it goes back into “WOAHHH KEEP YOUR HEAD- KEEP YOUR HEAD LOW (LAAAA LA LA LA LA LA LAAAAAA)”

[askoperaghost]

Ok but like... we all know Christine is a hardcore fave for you (which I mean, is absolutely valid) but say you were casting an opera where the female lead *wasn’t* a soprano (idk, Carmen for example) how would you go about that? Sincerely, an intrigued mezzo

My process for casting, just in general, calls for actors with a voice that matches the character. A more bold character would call for a heavier voice, whereas a more graceful character would call for a lighter voice. It would be the same for any auditioned voice (soprano, tenor, etc.). It depends on whether or not I envision the auditionee in the role. Unfortunately, I’m not usually in charge of casting. I had to make threats so Christine could get exposure.

I also would look for actors who work well with other actors (like I said, I am not the final word on casting, otherwise La Carlotta would be out of a job).

(OOC: I think that’s usually how directors audition people, anyway.)

[askoperaghost]

Dear managers,

So. You sold out Box Five again. I once told you that, should my demands be ignored, you would face catastrophe. I trust you’ll discover soon enough the result of invoking my wrath backstage left by the elephant prop. Do not disappoint me again.

I shall make these requests, and pray you follow them. In your performances of Die Zauberflöte, you will put Christine Daae in the role of the Queen of the Night. Her coloratura is most remarkable, you will find. Carlotta Giudicelli is not to perform. Although she is a Queen of the Night herself (insufferable, as you know, as well as contentious), she does not possess the vocal quality of a prima donna. Furthermore, Señor Piangi must improve his tone as well. Since there are no qualified tenors, Piangi will have to do, but he is not performance-ready himself. 

You will keep Box Five open again this time. You know the consequences, should you do otherwise. 

Your obedient friend,

O.G.

[askoperaghost]

The managers sold out Box Five AGAIN....

[askoperaghost]

Good afternoon.

I have just been informed that I am apparently supposed to report events that occur in my lifetime, so I will inform you, the viewers, that I have begun writing a funeral march for a certain Vicomte...

[askoperaghost]

OMG ERIK

...hello...

[askoperaghost]

[[Ask box open, I think.]]