Opera in the Park 2005

The sun kept shining through the low clouds and fog and warmed the crowd at the 32nd annual Opera in the Park on Sunday, September 11. Thanks to Sally Warren and Tom Carlisle who braved the morning chill to lay claim, Supers gathered near the banner at the traditional site on the right side of the stage for an up-close-and-personal view of the concert. Committee member Barbara Sherman helped hold down the fort.

There was the usual array of blankets and chairs and a bounty of tasty picnic food, including some pungent fromage courtesy of committee member Bradly Hamilton. Friends and family joined the group including a large contingent hosted by committee member Rob Wonder as well as John F. Martin & family, committee member Paul Szczesiul and partner Joe Nesci, and a cameo appearance by Lucas Rebston.

But it wasn’t just a day of rest and relaxation, as Supers volunteered to help with marketing efforts by handing out CDs and selling discounted tickets. Among those spotted working the crowd were Traude Alpert, Walt Thorpe and committee member Kimberly Thompson who, the night before, was included in a supers-only bow following the opening of L’Italiana in Algieri.

Thanks to the costume shop sale in August, some came decked out in impressive costumes including Andrew Korniej in a stunning Egyptian headdress. Rumor has it that the Annual Super Party this year just might be a costume party, so keep those costumes steamed and ready to go.

Supers were especially pleased to be joined on their blankets by countertenor David Daniels, Rodelinda Stage Director David Alden and Assistant Director Roy Rallo.

As the last chorus of Libiamo faded across Sharon Meadow, and the crowds began trekking out of the park, it seemed a fitting start to the fall opera season.

Photo Gallery courtesy of Charlie Lichtman and Paul Szczesiul.