11 - Cracking the code to making opera relatable with Alex Hajek

In this episode of the Compassionate Revolution podcast, host Alaina Viau is joined by Alex Hajek, Canadian baritone, co-producer of Opera Revue.

Alex shares his experience with Opera Revue, which has sold out shows, diverse audience members across generations, and is opening doors to new perspectives within the opera industry. Discover how their unique approach has been successful and why people are craving more of these alternative expressions.

The traditional opera model is being challenged by the desires of new generations and the importance of embracing different expressions and ways of engaging. How do we find the delicate balance between giving the audience what they want and maintaining artistic integrity? What happens if we get rid of the stuffy rules, high prices, and boring acts that get in the way of enjoying opera?

Timestamps:

[00:01:55] The opera career in Europe.
[00:05:09] Opera burlesque fusion.
[00:08:20] Burlesque dancers collaboration.
[00:12:23] Violence on public transit.
[00:15:47] Repertoire concerns and audience engagement.
[00:19:58] Long opera performances.
[00:23:07] Decline in sports and entertainment.
[00:27:21] Comedy in opera and its impact.
[00:31:06] Opera as an investment.
[00:35:00] Performers feeding off audience energy.
[00:38:30] Pop artists as entertainers.
[00:42:27] Celebrity culture in opera.
[00:46:07] Local talent in opera.

Links:

Connect with Alex Hajek
https://alexanderhajek.com/
https://www.instagram.com/hazardust/
https://www.youtube.com/@operarevue

Connect with Alaina Viau
https://www.alainaviau.com/
https://www.instagram.com/alainaviau/

Connect with Loose Tea Music Theatre
https://looseteamusictheatre.com/
https://www.instagram.com/looseteatheatre/