Greetings, readers! My name is Michael Nyby, I’m a first year resident artist baritone with the Minnesota Opera. My first assignment this season is the cover to Zurga in the Pearl Fishers, so here I am in the Ordway watching the production’s first piano tech rehearsal. The rehearsal hasn’t yet started, but let me tell you, the set is a sight to behold. This production was designed by renowned fashion designer Zandra Rhodes. The bright colours and wild angles of the design stand in stark contrast to the classy old-fashioned billiard hall look of the Ordway’s interior. Speaking of Ms. Rhodes, she just walked in the room. She has bright pink hair and is wearing a very loud outfit which matches the set to a T!

I’ve watched the cast run through the opera many times now, but tonight–with the costumes, set, and some lighting work–is when we’ll really start to make some magic….
And to think I’m getting paid to sit here and watch it!

Best-
Mike