Melanie Bacaling - Stage Director

Summary

In this episode of the OperaBiz Podcast, Daniel Welch and Melanie Bacaling delve into the intricacies of opera directing, what the different roles entail, interactions and workflow with the performers, and the importance of intimacy coordinators in creating a safe and empowering environment for performers. Melanie also shares her knowledge about working behind the scenes are The Metropolitan Opera - what makes it a unique and most notable company for opera in the United States.

Takeaways

• Opera found me first, directing came second.
• Assistant directing in opera is very stage management oriented.
• The Met's workflow is unlike any other house.
• Preparation is crucial for performers in opera.
• Covering roles requires readiness and adaptability.
• Directing at the Met involves a large team of assistants.
• The challenges of opera time require patience from audiences.
• Opera can be a meditative art form in a fast-paced world. The magic of opera lies in its ability to expand time for audiences.
• Directing opera presents unique challenges, especially regarding time constraints.
• Intimacy coordinators are becoming essential in opera to ensure safety and comfort.
• Consent is crucial in performance art, impacting both romantic and intense scenes.
• Directors should have a clear artistic mission to guide their choices.
• Giving oneself permission to fail is vital for artistic growth.
• Avoiding comparison with others fosters a healthier artistic community.
• Freelancers must manage their own benefits and career paths effectively.
• Community support is invaluable in the arts, celebrating each other's successes.
• Personal milestones in one's career can be deeply fulfilling and affirming.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Opera Directing and Its Challenges
02:50 The Role of Assistant and Associate Directors
05:59 The Unique Workflow at the Met
08:50 The Importance of Preparation in Opera
12:11 Covering Roles and the Pressure of Performance
14:50 Comparing Directing at the Met to Other Houses
18:00 The Art of Directing Opera: Challenges and Insights
29:07 The Magic of Opera's Time Expansion
30:34 Challenges in Opera Direction
32:28 The Role of Intimacy Coordinators in Opera
39:37 The Importance of Consent in Performance
43:42 Do's and Don'ts for Aspiring Directors
51:33 Celebrating Community and Personal Milestones