Opera and Beer: Why not?

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Friday, March 09, 2012

Jennifer Roy, GoLocalWorcester Lifestyle Contributor

Bar Opera…it’s a crazy idea that just might work. The concept came to 27 year old Tara Alcorn when she decided to combine her not-so-secret wish to become a rock star, with her desire to bring opera to a younger audience.

“I’ve always wanted to be a rock star, and singing opera in a bar is about as close as it will get for me!” laughs Acorn.

According to the Clark University graduate, opera companies around the United States are starting to perform in non-traditional venues to try to widen the appeal of the art form. Alcorn studied classical voice with private teachers including Worcester’s own, Jane Shivick while at Clark University, and has coached with renowned accompanist Sima Kustanovich. Through the years, Alcorn has developed a tightly knit group of vocal performing friends, whom she called upon to help her with her goal.

“I chose people that are fun, open-minded, and dynamic performers” she says.

Acorn appears to be all of those things herself, which should lend to an entertaining show. While the vocalist sites opera greats such as Renee Flemming and Placido Domingo as some of her greatest inspirations, she also loves modern rap and R&B artists like Pitbull, Beyonce and Rihanna.

“I know more old school rap lyrics than anyone else I know!”

Though bars are not known for their acoustics, Alcorn says the sound experts at Ralph’s Chadwicks Square Diner will mix the sound and assist with levels to ensure the best results. Performers will also use microphones, which could be useful to cut through the clatter of beer bottles and bar room banter.

The chanteuse has been using social media to advertise her show which will take place at 8pm this Sunday at Ralph’s Diner in Worcester. Music from the Marriage of Figaro, Carmen, and other popular Operas will be featured. Alcorn says people will recognize most of the music from car commercials and movies. Other local performers will include Mauri Tetreault, Christine Petkus, Laura Hansen and Thaddeus Bell. Emily Murphy will be accompanying.As for how Acorn will measure the evening’s success?

“I don’t care if 50 people show up or 5. As long as people leave with smiles on their faces, humming ‘Habanera’, I’ll be a happy woman”, explains Acorn.