Ahead of the premiere of The Flying Dutchman, the stunning new production from OperaUpClose, in partnership with Manchester Camerata, we catch up with Pauls Putnins, who plays the Mariner…
How are rehearsals going?
PP: Splendidly! We are a good and friendly team. The discovery process together has been so enjoyable.
What do you enjoy about the rehearsal process?
PP: Everything. It’s such a complex thing. If I had to single out one thing, it would be developing the role from what has been a solo practice at home in my head into a ‘real’ and cohesive living being on stage with the help of other performers, a director, a conductor and the costume, set and props.
What can you tell us about how this production of The Flying Dutchman is different?
PP: This production is unique in many aspects. Firstly, it has a new story, which has been successfully married to the existing Wagner music and reworked to fit this particular group. Secondly, we are working with only 8 musicians in the orchestra, only 4 singers on the stage and the chorus is sung by the orchestra musicians.
Why did you want to be involved in the project?
PP: The role of ‘Dutchman’ ( in our production, ‘Mariner’) has been a dream role for me for several years. I have matured as a singer to be able to tackle it now.
What do you like about working with Opera Up Close?
PP: I like the people. The working atmosphere here is just great
What do you like about touring?
PP: Getting to know places and all the good that it brings to one’s personal development.
Why should people come and see the show?
PP: We have a great opera presented in a very accessible way. Instead of German it will be sung in English and the subject matter of this production deals with very current issues our society is facing right now.
For anyone who thinks opera isn’t for them, why will they enjoy this show?
PP: This company is called OperaUpClose and you will feel like you are part of us there on the stage, you will get a very unique and intimate experience and will be very close to us, which cannot be achieved in bigger venues. Hopefully, after seeing our production you’ll become an ardent opera lover!
Do you have any good luck rituals before a performance?
PP: Not really but I try to get a good night’s sleep and eat well. Opera performance is a very physically demanding event for both the body and the mind.
The Flying Dutchman premieres on Wednesday 28 June, with further performances on Friday 30 June and Saturday 1 July. Book your ticket here
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