At her 70th birthday celebration, Dorothy, who is primarily a fan of operas by Verdi and Puccini, was surrounded by children and grandchildren at Jimmy’s Charhouse in Libertyville.
Norm, a “Ringhead,” has, as he put it, “finally” convinced her to attend the Seattle Ring Cycle in August. A little Wagner music was especially called for at this occasion!
Five hours later, we sang for her birthday then had a little quiz. See if you can answer this question:
A “Deadhead” is to “Jerry Garcia” as a __________ is to “Richard Wagner.”
a. Ringworm
b. Ringhead
c. Hochstimme
Rose, thanks for providing my wife with a memorable occasion on her birthday. She thoroughly enjoyed it. The video will be treasured.
We will think of you in Seattle in August. This is her first Ring, my seventh. Hojotoho! Hojotoho!!!!!!!!!!!
As to preparation for the Ring, I plan to reread Sir Denis Foreman's treatise of the four operas in his book, A Night at the Opera. On the flight to Seattle I will read Fr. Owen Lee's book, Wagner's Ring, Turning the Sky Around.
As to preparation for the performances themselves, I eat at least one hour before curtain drinking no alcohol , especially for the last three in the cycle. This gives a little time for digestion. Bring a snack for intermissions. In Seattle the Opera House is next to the Space Needle and a very fine park. Get outside and walk around. Visit the gift shop where all kinds of things are on sale or there is a cafe in the House for light snacks.
Above all sit back and enjoy!
P.S. This is my third trip to the Seattle Ring and eighth over all. They never get tiresome!