Not So Good as La Traviata (2008)
In 2001, John Spartan and Scott Farrell began their collaboration. Their first opera together was Not So Good as La Traviata, a spoof on Verdi's opera and other musical conventions and devices. It was completed by April 2002 and was recorded by the Royal English Opera Company on August 15 2002. Selections were given at recitals within the next year. When Rockford Operetta Party was revived, it was agreed by the author and composer that the third production would be one of their works. Not So Good was selected and paired with their third opera, Dulcamara, to make a complete evening. Click here to see highlights from Not So Good as La Traviata. Click here to hear the mp3 of the double chorus from Dulcamara.
The operas were premiered on October 17 2008 at Central Christian Church in Rockford. The group was accompanied by an eight-piece orchestra, arranged by the composer, and conducted by Steve Lilja. It was our only semi-professional production, funded by the author. Our season also included appearances in the Labour Day Parade and on WTVO's DayBreak and WIFR's Morning Blend, both local news shows. A second performance was given on October 18.
Cast
Violet - Erin Connor
Alfred - Scott Farrell
Dr. Gremlin - Jordan Becker
Florence - Alexandrea Davis
Annie - Amber Wines
George - John Denison
The Orchestra
Flute - Ashley Earls
Clarinet - Jenny Seidel
Trombone - Kelly Beaman
Percussion - Andrew Soderstrom
Piano - Elizabeth Powell
Violin - Judy Litterst
Viola - Alan Hale
Cello - Michael Nelson
Conducted by Steve Lilja
