Pop Star to Opera Star

[mariana44]

I suppose because the music of "Carmen" is so popular and well known--it is less like an opera, but more of a musical--in a foreign language!! And of course there was the film "Carmen Jones"--which really was a musical.

And I prefer Katherine to Leslie.

[paul jh]

I am certain that Katherine could record the entire Carmen opera. I'm sure it would sell well.

It's interesting to read that the Sunday Express is now the authority on opera. All my friends who sing opera love to poke fun at it. You almost have to -- given the plots and some of the tedious music.

I'm sure I would love this TV programme. It's worthwhile if it exposes viewers to new music.

[mariana44]

Thanks Paul--Katherine is very high-profile at the moment, so I also agree that she would do well.

[jon]

I'm not sure The Sunday Express was claiming it was an authority on opera (the criticisms of the programme have been reported in several other papers) but did quote two current leading opera singers, Rebecca Evans and Sarah Connolly, to the effect that it was a frivolous show (although Rebecca Evans said she thought it was "a laugh") and that the aim of it wasn't clear: they didn't think anyone would be prompted to attend a production of an opera on the basis of this programme. I think the production might have had more credibility if they'd chosen performers who have better voices than the lot they've got. But including a member of McFly sums up the whole tenor of the programme really (if you'll excuse the pun).

[Mark Fox]

She could probably'record'the whole of Carmen,Porgy&Bess,Showboat including ALL the parts ,male&female.
I thought you meant Opera ,you know'LA TRAVIATA','TOSCA',the like.

[Mark Fox]

Lampooned by Harry Hil in his'BURPS'-hilarious!

[mariana44]

I loved the "song" that Kym sang last night-I do not think I have ever heard that one before. I am still enjoying it-it is making "opera" accessible, for many who would not normally listen to it.

[Marian]

I'm still enjoying the show too Marian.

[paul jh]

I would love this programme. As you say it is a great way to introduce people to opera and classical music.

I did some searches. Is Kym's song Nella Fantasia, which is a vocal version of Ennio Morricone's Gabriel's Oboe from the soundtrack of The Mission? Sarah Brightman has recorded it. I think Katherine Jenkins may have recorded it too.

[Gray]

The soundtrack to The Mission is a masterpiece (in my opinion! )

[mariana44]

Yes Paul-that is the song-I had guessed that Katherine had recorded it, but did not know that Sarah Brightman had.

I am sure that you would love the show, Paul--it is not meant to be the top end opera-as in Maria Callas etc--how could it be, with just a few weeks training-I am amazed at how well they are doing, and I am still tipping Kym to win.

[Mark Fox]

Harry Hill continues to send it up!Very funny,Harry that is.

[Marian]

Well, we've lost Kym now Marian, only Bernie Nolan and Darius Campbell
left in the final. What happened to the Danesh surname?!!
Bernie to win, she's amazing!

[mariana44]

I think I would like Darius to win now--yes I had commented on his change of surname--Campbell is a family name--or something like that !