We had the chance to ask a few questions (virtually!) to Armando Contreras, the baritone singing Marcello in our upcoming production of La Bohème. Explore this fun Q&A below and get to know Armando and a little more about this timeless opera:
Dianela Acosta:
What is the best part of singing the role of Marcello?
Armando Contreras:
The best part of singing the role of Marcello is the vocal lines! This is my first Puccini role so it is great to sing such beautiful vocal lines! Marcello isn't even considered a romantic character in this opera but some of his vocal lines would sure fool you!
Dianela:
What are you most excited for?
Armando:
I am most excited to sing on stage again! What an honor it is to be able to be on stage again and to be able to sing one of the greatest operas in the repertoire. I am so excited to be able to interact with my colleagues on stage and make some great art. It is an incredible cast and I am honored to be making music with them.
Dianela:
What is your favorite moment in Boheme?
Armando:
My favorite moment is after Musetta's waltz, Marcello is trying to restrain himself from Musetta but he can't help himself! She knows exactly how to woo him and of course, he falls for it. Next, Marcello sings the gorgeous melody of Musetta's waltz in what turns out to be a beautiful, comedic and romantic moment, which is pure genius by Puccini!
Dianela:
Name your three favorite operas?
Armando:
Dianela:
What Opera should companies be doing more of?
Armando:
I think in general, opera companies should be doing contemporary operas that speak to the modern audience. Dead Man Walking composed by Jake Heggie addresses the issues of the death penalty. As One composed by Laura Kaminsky addresses the issues that people of the LGBTQ+ community face. Cruzar la cara de la luna composed by José Pepe Martinez celebrates mariachi and opera coming together! So many great new operas to reach new audiences and address issues that are relatable to all.
Dianela:
How did you come into opera?
Armando:
I joined the Phoenix Boys Choir when I was 8 years old. We sang in the childrens' choruses for productions with Arizona Opera. The first show I ever did was La Boheme! I have fond memories of being on stage with Parpignol and being scolded by my "stage mom"! It was a blast! And I remember thinking Musetta's waltz was some of the most beautiful music I had ever heard! Still true to this day!
Dianela:
What has it been like being a singer in the pandemic?
Armando:
To say the least, it has been challenging. Like most singers, I had gigs cancelled that I was looking forward to, including shows with the Glimmerglass Festival, Central City Opera and Opera Steamboat. Not knowing when opera will fully return, has been a challenging reality but I am grateful for companies that are doing their best to provide opportunities for their singers and their audience, including Boulder Opera! I have been able to do socially distant shows, outdoor shows and virtual shows with local opera companies here in Colorado.
Dianela:
What are your future plans after this show?
Armando:
I am fortunate enough to be in a workshop opera with the Glimmerglass Festival called The Knock. It is an opera about a soldier who is a Casualty Notification Officer and his struggles with doing this job. It also highlights the stories of the families that have to receive the unfortunate news. The opera takes place at Fort Carson, coincidentally, I live only 5 minutes away from Fort Carson. So it has been a privilege to work on and look forward to the show coming together in the coming months. I will also be singing the Count in Boulder Opera's production of Le nozze di Figaro in 2021!
I also have a virtual voice studio where I teach students of all ages. I teach classical music, contemporary music, pop and jazz! If you or someone you know are interested, please email me at amcontreras10@gmail.com!
Dianela:
What do you hope for Opera and live shows after the pandemic?
Armando:
I hope that we are able to bring joy back to people's lives after the pandemic. People are LONGING to be back in the theaters and I look forward to the euphoria that we will all experience together. I think we will see a resurgence of opera-goers as well. People will not take for granted the opportunity to attend live music in their area and this should help bring all these opera companies back that have been suffering financially during this time.