(Photo credit Syrus Sadvandi)
Written by Jesus Figueroa
@ThisFunktional
The church at Heritage Square served a beautiful and chilling backdrop to the magnificent performance of SANCTA SUSANNA: A HORROR OPERA presented by Source/Filter Music Collective.
Set in an isolated convent, "Sancta Susanna" tells the harrowing tale of an innocent nun plagued by satanic visions. As she seeks guidance from her mother superior, she uncovers a sinister secret lurking within the convent’s walls. This powerful opera, which once shook the Frankfurt music scene, raises the question: will she succumb to her temptations?
The walk through the dimly lit Heritage Square Museum to the church and entering the church emerges the audience in the mood for the night.
The “evil nun choir” starts the evening with a gorgeous performance which fits perfectly to build the anticipation for the main performance.
After a short intermission, SANCTA SUSANNA begins and quickly captivated with great stage presence and serene vocals.
Elise Walters (soprano) in the role of Susanna, Zineb Fikri (contralto) in the role of Sister Klementia, Jessica Tivens-Schneiderman (soprano) in the role of Mother Superior, Rae Shrum (mezzo-soprano) in the role of Rosalie, Megan Shoaf (soprano) in the role of Young Maiden, Jessie Massoudi (soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus, Marissa Plati (soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus, Emily Gallagher (soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus, Lamia Mazegue (mezzo-soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus, Samantha Rosenberg (soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus, Laura Barrows (soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus, and Amanda Mello (soprano) in the role of Nun Chorus.
Opera Director Britta Sterling, Music Director Caleb Yanez Glickman, and Collaborative Pianist Milena Gligic.
Pros:- The opera experience is modernized for a new generation of audiences while keeping true to the opera experience as to satisfy opera goers.
- While the subject matter can be controversial, Source/Filter Music Collective presents SANCTA SUSANNA in a manner which highlights the beautiful vocals of the performers and does not simply rely on shock value to gain notoriety.
- The powerful vocals of the performers are strong and clear. The performance is accompanied by the projection of the lyrics, which are not really needed because the performers vocals are easily understood.
- The scenery of the church at Heritage Square Museum is an aspect of the performance that enhances the experience. The space gives every audience member a good seat to make the performance experience feel intimate.
Cons:- The only negative would be the length of the performance. While there are two parts to this performance, the nun choir and SANCTA SUSANNA, the entire night feels short. The performance is so good that it could be longer and still be enjoyable.
Source/Filter Music Collective’s performance of SANCTA SUSANNA is 9 out of 10 stars. Everything seemed to fall into place. The location enhanced the mood of the performance and immersed the audience into the story. The nun choir performed a great set to lead into the opera. The pacing of the opera felt fluid and moved forward steadily. The vocals were beautiful, powerful, and clear. The length felt short and left the audience wanting more.
About Source/Filter Music Collective:
Source Filter Music is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Your donation is tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. EIN: 99-1754997
As a female-led organization committed to revolutionizing the classical music experience in Los Angeles, Source/Filter Music Collective need your support to bring their ambitious projects to life. Contribution will go directly toward production costs: from tech equipment and costumes to artist fees and venue expenses.
For more information or to donate,
click here.
