Opera Cinema "The Magic Flute" is Coming! (2) Introducing New Tenor, Joseph Kaiser
Opera Cinema "The Magic Flute" is Coming!
About New Tenor, Joseph Kaiser
In Kenneth Branagh's opera film "The Magic Flute," which uses computer graphics to set the stage in World War I, Joseph Kaiser plays the tall, handsome Tamino.
Over 1,000 singers auditioned for the film "The Magic Flute," which demands not only singing ability but also meticulous acting. Kaiser, then a 26-year-old up-and-coming opera singer, landed this major role.
As expected, with the strong endorsement of music director James Conlon and Kenneth Branagh, he played the lead in the innovative production of "The Magic Flute" with a composure and keen intuition beyond his years.
An interview with Joseph Kaiser by Yoko Yamanaka, president of Cetera International, the film distribution company involved in promoting "The Magic Flute."
text by YAMANAKA Yoko
(Cetera International Managing Director)
Joseph Kaiser (photo: Yoko Yamanaka)
A Brilliant Debut in the Opera Film "The Magic Flute"
New Tenor, Joseph Kaiser
After spending a year filming this movie, Joseph Kaiser appeared as Froh in "Das Rheingold" at the 2007 Salzburg Easter Festival and is also scheduled to sing Lensky in "Eugene Onegin" conducted by Barenboim at the same festival in the summer.
Until 2003, he was a baritone. For a newcomer in his fourth year after switching to tenor, he has a remarkably fortunate career, which is, of course, due to his talent.
When asked about the difference between performing opera on stage and in film, having experienced the film "The Magic Flute," he explained that on stage, the primary focus is on projecting his voice to reach the audience according to the size of the theater. In film, however, the camera captures even the smallest facial expressions, so he was trained to express 'truthful' emotions above all else.
He also mentioned that this experience has influenced his character development when he returns to the stage after experiencing film.
From "The Magic Flute." Joseph Kaiser as Tamino on the right.
© THE PETER MOORES FOUNDATION-2006
A "Magic Flute" Open to the World
The staff and singers all kept in mind the question of how to create a new, unprecedented "Magic Flute," and much discussion went into its creation.
It seems they aimed for an "open Magic Flute" that could capture the hearts of a wider audience, not just the traditional opera house patrons.
To achieve this, Kenneth Branagh, whose skill in revitalizing Shakespearean plays for contemporary audiences was highly valued, was chosen as director.
Regarding Branagh, who is not an opera expert, directing the production, Kaiser stated that it is sufficient that Branagh deeply loves the music of "The Magic Flute" and possesses his own unique perspective.
The same can be said for Barenboim, who will conduct "Eugene Onegin" this summer. Even if one is not Russian, with strong passion and knowledge of the work, they can deliver a superb "Onegin."
Kaiser recalled the challenges of filming "The Magic Flute," which required up to 25 takes, saying, "This never happens on stage!" However, he also mentioned that filming was as enjoyable as going to an amusement park every day.
That enjoyment naturally comes across to the viewer when watching the film.
Looking ahead, while preparing to sing roles such as Gounod's "Faust," Pelléas, and Don Ottavio, the 29-year-old also dreams of one day singing "Lohengrin."
Original Soundtrack
Released June 27, 2007!
Includes commentary and lyrics with Japanese translation, ¥2,500 (tax included)
TOCE-55949 (Toshiba EMI)
*Ringback tones also available!
http://www.toshiba-emi.co.jp/classic/mateki/
Music Director and Conductor: James Conlon
European Chamber Orchestra
Tamino: Joseph Kaiser (Top young opera singer, winner of the Plácido Domingo World Opera Competition)
Pamina: Amy Carson (Rising star in the UK classical scene)
Papageno: Ben Davis (Active as a North American musical theater star)
Papagena: Sylvia Moy (Emerging singer from the Nordic opera scene)
Sarastro: René Pape (The foremost bass singer of our time)
Queen of the Night: Lyubov Petrova (Russian soprano active in Europe and America)