The final week

     The final week of our trip will be cram packed with events. There will be two performances of Mozart's Le Nozze di Figaro. Some of the principle roles were double cast, such as the roles of Susanna and the Countess. I am fortunate enough to be able to be in both productions as Marcellina. Our first rehearsal with Paolo Belloli, conductor, went well. Dr, Lyman played the piano and Paolo gave instructions to all in areas that needed adjustment. He was commanding, funny, and a pleasure to work with. We took a break after each act. Even though the conductor did not speak English very well, he was able to give helpful, precise instructions after, and at times, during each number. It is an amazing pleasure to be able to work with Stella Peruzzi and Andrea Sari, who are Italian opera singers. After about a five hour rehearsal, we all gathered to have dinner at a restaurant called Carobabbo, which is located in the middle of a sunflower field. The ambiance was exquisite. We sat at a long table outside that was under a pergola. There was good conversation, laughter, and pretty good pizza. Tomorrow, we will rehearse with the orchestra. We have exactly two rehearsals with the orchestra before the performance.