THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, July 22, 1994 TAG: 9407210189
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 08 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY ANKE OTTO-WOLF, CORRESPONDENT
LENGTH: Medium: 70 lines
Opera lovers who want to share their love of opera with the public are in school this summer.
In preparation for the coming season, the Virginia Opera's Education Outreach Program is training docents this summer. For eight weeks volunteers are attending workshops to familiarize themselves with various opera topics including opera history and the history of the Harrison Opera House, the human voice and the philosophy of scenic design.
``The purpose of the workshops is to provide a comprehensive program of education and training to prepare docents for giving public presentations,'' said Marilyn Buxbaum, docent chairman. ``Usually we have 25 to 40 on the roster.''
The love for opera is what brings this diverse group of about 25 people together. They range in age from early 30s to their 70s and include lawyers, postal supervisors, librarians, pilots, teachers and Realtors from communities all over Hampton Roads.
They will take their knowledge to schools, will assist during student matinee performances and lead educational programs for specific interest groups.
``At times, full-time employment can put a strain on scheduling, but in general, we have been very lucky,'' said Buxbaum. ``There is much interest in this program among the settled, mature friends of opera. And word of mouth always brings new people into the program.''
Several years ago, Jane Lindsey watched a TV interview with then ailing tenor Jose Careras. It touched her deeply. ``His passion for opera and the will to live and sing again was infectious and my interest in opera began,'' she said. ``And one day, my 4-year-old watched a German opera on TV, and, well, put these things together and you have a new Virginia Opera docent.''
Lindsey, Navy wife and mother, has returned to college for her master's degree. She said learning about opera is rewarding and exciting. ``And one day I will share my knowledge with kids.''
The docent program was conceived 1980 to educate the public about Virginia Opera and its productions as well as the art form itself. Programs the docents offer are free and are presented in schools or for community groups.
``There are so many misconceptions about opera,'' said Helen Stevenson, Virginia Opera's director of education. ``The docents are flexible and really promote opera. They are one of our important links to the community, because they are creating new audiences.''
Although opera appeals to some listeners through its music and voices, it delights others with its unreal stories and bizarre costumes.
``Not taking everything too serious is the joy of opera,'' said William Cole, museum consultant and resident of the Williamsburg area. ``I am interested in the history of opera, particularly how it truly began in Norfolk. I find much pleasure in sharing knowledge about the opera house and the original purpose of the building.''
Because opera is such a comprehensive art form, Cole said, audiences also need to learn to appreciate the complete building and its meaning for opera. ``We look into the uniqueness of the house and its history relating to opera. Opera should be fun; the whole concept is more than just music.''
For information about the availability of docent programs for schools or organizations, call the Virginia Opera's education department, 627-9545. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by RICHARD L. DUNSTON
Marian Leavitt, a docent, listens to another member of the Virginia
Beach Opera's Education Outreach Program. In the background is
Charles K. Sibley's ``Turandot.''
by CNB