En route to South Africa.

37,000 over the ocean, 12 hours into a 15-hour flight.  The “moving map” shows we’re approaching the coast of the continent of Africa, crossing the countries of Namibia and Botswana before reaching South Africa and landing in the city of Johannesburg.

It’s my first time to South Africa and the project is La Bohème, at Opera Africa.  The engagement came out of nowhere; one day last summer I received an e-mail from OA’s Artistic Director, Hein, saying that Brian Dickie (Chicago Opera Theatre) had recommended me and asking if I would be interested in coming.  I was immediately taken with the idea, and with OA’s willingness to work through some challenges with my schedule we quickly came to an agreement.

After arriving home Tuesday night from a lovely Eugene Onegin in Anchorage, I had a few days to turn around and get ready for another long trip (from dead of winter to height of summer!).  Although I do come back to the U.S. during the South Africa period it’s not home to FL, but to Raleigh for a subscription series with the NC Symphony.

I’m sure I’ll have more to write very soon, including how the first few hours go!  We’re scheduled to land right around 5 pm Johannesburg time (7 hours ahead of NY) and my first rehearsal with the cast is at 7 pm!  I’m praying for a smooth entry into the country and no traffic en route to the theatre!

Back to a quick review of Acts 3 & 4, more to come once I get settled in and have something to report!