Opera at the symphony: The Magic Flute

Magic Flute at the symphony was delightful.

First, I wasn’t expecting the conductor to have a role. Just so surprising to have him peek over his shoulder, then turn around and address the audience about the nonsense happening on stage.

Second, the Queen of the Night aria was remarkable (which it is meant to be, it’s this one) and the woman who performed it just nailed it. The couple next to us even applauded and the man yelled “Brava!”

They had been silent till then. I think they had been debating whether one should follow Symphony Clapping Rules (no clapping until the end) or Opera Clapping Rules (clapping after the arias) or Harsh Opera Clapping Rules (clapping only for stellar performances). (I follow Groundling Opera Rules (hissing at villains, clapping for everything, whooping and clapping for children, no Bravos or Bravas ever).)

Third, the best part was early on as the Three Ladies were chastising the bird-catcher for his lies, and they sang something like, “May God shut the mouth of the liar.” There was a micro murmur of political exhaustion, and then we all burst into applause in the middle of the song.

So add First Amendment Clapping Rules to the list. No doubt the Liar will send ICE to visit St. Louis next.