What did she just say?

ABOVE: The set for Powder Her Face is loading in

WARNING:
This anecdote is not suitable for the very old or the very young.

Okay - for those of you who are unfamiliar with opera, most of it is sung in a language other than English, yes? For those learning the opera, a diction coach is usually used to help teach the proper pronounciations of the foreign language. For the audiences watching those just learning opera, there are large screens over the stage where the words of the opera are projected in English so one can read along. These are called SuperTitles.

What happens when the opera is sung in English, but British English? You would think a diction coach would be brought in to help. Alas, on my current production, we have none.

So, we are left with Californian opera students singing with amazing voices, but with sometimes fallable British diction:

Here's a name: Rick Hunt. Say it fast a few times in a row.

Are ya with me?

In the opera -
WHAT IS WRITTEN ON THE PAGE: "What is it you can't face?"
HOW IT SHOULD BE SUNG: "What is it you cawn't face?"

What do you think actually gets sung? (think Rick Hunt)








WHAT IS ACTUALLY SUNG: "What is it, you cunt face?"

Good thing there are supertitles for English operas, too, yes?

-v