Losing The Plot In Opera
This is a celebration of conductor and author Brian Castles-Onion's passion for Opera - a passion probably shared by you.
Opera, as we know, is so much more than just works in music- it’s a way of living for some, an expression of joy and escapism for others and fun for just about all. Right here, right now it’s the passion.
This website is dedicated to Brian's wonderful book Losing the Plot in Opera - yes, we want you to buy it and we KNOW you will enjoy it. This site will also tell you a bit about Brian himself - he is certainly a character worth knowing.
There’s quite a lot going on including a really useful glossary of operatic terms and exclusive, FREE excerpts from the book. You will find the book has lots of stories about Opera, from Carmen to La Boheme and stories about what actually happens amongst the eclectic community of performers. Brian swears that his stories are true- and we want you to share your stories too.
RECENT OPERA NEWS:
Top producer bows out of Opera Australia
Richard Jinman, June 23, 2008, Sydney Morning Herald
STUART MAUNDER, Opera Australia's executive producer and the director of its new production of My Fair Lady, is leaving the company.
His resignation was announced by Opera Australia's chief executive officer, Adrian Collette, at a party held on Saturday night to celebrate the opening of My Fair Lady. Maunder will leave on January 1, after more than nine years with the company. read more
Opera's bad boy strikes raw nerve
Louise Hall, June 29, 2008, Sydney Morning Herald
HE IS a modern-day, drug-taking womaniser but the latest Don Giovanni will be maintaining his modesty.
Hungarian bass Gabor Bretz will wear a flesh-coloured G-string when he steps out of an on-stage shower. read more
Kosky to head Berlin opera house
Bryce Hallett, June 26, 2008, Sydney Morning Herald
BARRIE KOSKY, the director regularly portrayed as the enfant terrible of Australian theatre, is about to become a serious player in Germany's well-funded cultural landscape.
Kosky was yesterday appointed artistic director of Berlin's famed Komische Oper for five years by the Mayor of Berlin, Klaus Wowereit.
Kosky is the first Australian theatre director to take charge of a significant European opera house. He begins the job in 2012. read more