 This season will be Eddie Eichenhorn’s sixth year with MOTCC where he has participated in the mainstage productions of Brundibár, The Happy Prince, and Carmen. He has also performed the role of Koko in MOTCC’s production of Mikado, as well as Dwalin in The Hobbit. Other performances include Timon in Lion King Jr., and Gavroche in Les Miserables. Eichenhorn will be performing the role of Dike Deadeye in the upcoming MOTCC production of H.M.S. Pinafore on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at the Detroit Opera House. Fun Facts About Eddie:
My Favorite Memory from MOTCC:
“I think my favorite moment in the MOTCC was the student dress rehearsal of The Mikado. My whole class was there to see me in the biggest part I’ve ever had. I think that was the most nervous I have ever been. I recall coming out for my first entrance, I had one line of dialogue before I would go into my song. I remember looking out at the crowd before delivering that line, barely being able to breathe, and debating if I should yell to stop the show. Of course, I said the line and the music started to play for my song. It was at that moment I realized that there was nothing to worry about, I was the lead of an opera at the opera house; if they didn’t think I could do it, then they wouldn't have cast me in the role. That might be the biggest thing I have learned from the MOTCC: you wouldn’t be put somewhere or asked to do something if people didn’t believe you could do. I will always remember going back to school and my friends looking at me and saying. 'Eddie your opera was so cool, but what exactly was it about.' And to them I would respond, 'Nobody really knows.'" - Eddie  This 2017-18 season will be Emily Johnson’s second year with MOTCC. She has performed in productions of The Hobbit, Carmen, and Ruddigore with the company. Outside of MOTCC, her theatre credits include, Aladdin Jr., High School Musical, Into the Woods Jr, and The Little Mermaid. She has also received awards from AGM in pop music and musical theater. Most recently, Johnson performed in MOTCC’s 10th Annual A Winter Fantasy Concert and will be performing in the spring opera, H.M.S. Pinafore on April 28, 2018. “One of my favorite memories was when we did the dress rehearsal for The Hobbit by Dean Burry. It’s one of my favorites, because I was able to see how everyone's hard work by learning all the music, staging, quick changes, and so much more all come together. I have so many memories from being a part of MOTCC and the friends I have met from it are now some of my best friends.”- Emily Johnson Fun Facts About Emily:
My Favorite Memory from MOTCC:
"One of my favorite memories was when we did the dress rehearsal for The Hobbit by Dean Burry. It’s one of my favorites, because I was able to see how everyone's hard work by learning all the music, staging, quick changes, and so much more all come together. I have so many memories from being a part of MOTCC and the friends I have met from it are now some of my best friends." - Emily Arsh and Sana Wasnik Arsh and Sana Wasnik are siblings in the MOTCC chorus, while this is Sana’s first year in Preparatory Chorus, Arsh has been with the program for four years and is a member of the Principal Chorus. Arsh has avidly participated in the chorus's outreach program over the years including collaborative events with Vista Maria and Capuchin Soup Kitchen. The Wasniks participated in the recent outreach event at Brilliant Detroit. Arsh will be Bob Becket, the carpenter's mate, and Sana will be in the Preparatory Chorus in the spring production of H.M.S Pinafore. Fun Facts About Arsh and Sana:
My Favorite Memory of MOTCC:
“Getting into Michigan Opera will be one of my biggest accomplishments ever in my life. I have been doing Michigan Opera for 4 years and I loved every single part of it. One thing I will always remember is all of the memories that I will remember and friends I will never forget. I’ve loved singing to everyone and making their day a better one. Every aspect of singing, volunteering, and making friends has been a blast and it will always hold a place in my heart.” – Arsh “When my mom told me I got into Michigan Opera I was so excited. This is my first year of Michigan Opera. I have learned so much from the theory books and the music piece. I love singing, and my teacher and friends. My favorite experience so far is working with my teacher and everyone in Michigan Opera.” – Sana A Winter Fantasy is this Sunday! Look forward to Malaya Watson's performance for the 10th Anniversary Concert event on December 17th. Malaya Watson spent two seasons with MOTCC and performed in the production of The Very Last Green Thing before finishing eighth place on the thirteenth season of American Idol. While touring in the American Idols LIVE! Tour 2014 she worked on her debut EP, My Diary, and her unnamed album. She is currently attending Berklee College of Music as both a Composition and Contemporary Writing Major with digital singles, When I Was Your Man, The Long and Winding Road, Ain’t No Way, and Through that Fire. Name: Malaya Watson Hometown: Berkley Season in MOTCC:
What was your experience like at MOTCC? For me, MOTCC was my first time working professionally. The experience was refreshing; to be around people that have the same drive and interest as you musically is a tremendous feeling. It makes you feel like you belong somewhere, kind of like a family. It also exposed me to the classical side of music which I still enjoy to this day. Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now? 1. PRACTICE! When I first started, I was lazy. I didn't feel like practicing at all but I would go to rehearsal lost. Once I actually sat down and practiced at home, rehearsals would be a breeze and more enjoyable. Plus, the satisfaction from knowing you've got it all down is remarkable...at least to me 2. Listen to the people around you. That includes instructors and peers. Of course, like I always say: you take in what you allow yourself to take in and you leave pout what you allow yourself to leave out. But listen to the things people critique you on when it comes to music or your attitude in the work spaced. Analyze it and see if it applies to your life and if so how can you change it leave it the same or remove it all together. 3. Stay true to who YOU are. Don't let other people's harsh opinions about you make you shift who you truly are. Coming from experience, it's hard to find yourself again once you've lost it. So, if you want to be a singer, be the best singer you can be. If you want to walk dogs, you walk those dogs like there's no tomorrow. Just always remember to be YOU. What are your future goals and musical aspirations? I'm going to become one of the biggest, if not THEE biggest performers while also film scoring, composing and MDing other artists. 2 weeks till our annual A Winter Fantasy Concert! Look forward to Ryan Hurely's performance for this special 10th anniversary event on December 17. |
| Ryan Hurley spent four seasons with MOTCC before he studied in the Rackham Symphony Choir High School Vocal Internship under the direction of Suzanne Mallare Acton. While in high school, Hurley was a national finalist in the Classical Singer Vocal Competition and National YoungArts Foundation as well as a semifinalist for the U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. In 2016, he began his undergraduate training at the Juilliard School of Music where he recently sang the role of Courtier in The Burning Fiery Furnace and performed in Die Lustigen Weiber Von Windsor. Name: Ryan Hurley Hometown: Berkley Seasons in MOTCC:
|  |
What was your experience like at MOTCC?
I could write a novel about how amazing my time in MOTCC was. I made my professional and operatic debut in a major opera house and sang a minor, singing role in a staged opera production all before the age of 11! (I mean, come on! What 5th grade kid can say all that?) MOTCC changed my life in so many ways and led to many other wonderful opportunities. Almost all of my musical achievements can be traced back to MOTCC’s influence in some way or another. Singing with the children’s chorus not only uncovered my musical abilities, but taught me invaluable professional skills, the importance of being a reliable musician/person, and the value of hard work. I still credit this program for igniting my love for opera and theatre.
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
My main advice is to take it all in and to absorb as much as you can! As with all good things, they come to an end – someday you’re going to age out of this awesome program so enjoy it while you have it! Practice, ask questions, take pictures, stay in touch with your choir buddies, and remember to enjoy it while you’re there! You will miss it one day!
What are your future goals and aspirations?
I want to sing professionally – that’s the big picture goal for now. It’s what I wanted to do at 10-years-old and it’s what I know has always been my ‘calling’. I love opera and want to make learning and performing for people my life. I also have several other interests, as well! Because of MOTCC, I have really come to appreciate the importance of quality music education for young people. I have also always had a passion for community service and volunteerism. I’d would love to find a way to be able to combine my love for both of these things!
I could write a novel about how amazing my time in MOTCC was. I made my professional and operatic debut in a major opera house and sang a minor, singing role in a staged opera production all before the age of 11! (I mean, come on! What 5th grade kid can say all that?) MOTCC changed my life in so many ways and led to many other wonderful opportunities. Almost all of my musical achievements can be traced back to MOTCC’s influence in some way or another. Singing with the children’s chorus not only uncovered my musical abilities, but taught me invaluable professional skills, the importance of being a reliable musician/person, and the value of hard work. I still credit this program for igniting my love for opera and theatre.
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
My main advice is to take it all in and to absorb as much as you can! As with all good things, they come to an end – someday you’re going to age out of this awesome program so enjoy it while you have it! Practice, ask questions, take pictures, stay in touch with your choir buddies, and remember to enjoy it while you’re there! You will miss it one day!
What are your future goals and aspirations?
I want to sing professionally – that’s the big picture goal for now. It’s what I wanted to do at 10-years-old and it’s what I know has always been my ‘calling’. I love opera and want to make learning and performing for people my life. I also have several other interests, as well! Because of MOTCC, I have really come to appreciate the importance of quality music education for young people. I have also always had a passion for community service and volunteerism. I’d would love to find a way to be able to combine my love for both of these things!
We're only 3 weeks away from our annual A Winter Fantasy Concert! Look forward to Antonio Cipriano's performance for this special 10th anniversary event on December 17.
Name: Antonio Cipriano
Hometown: Grosse Pointe Shores
Seasons in MOTCC:
Name: Antonio Cipriano
Hometown: Grosse Pointe Shores
Seasons in MOTCC:
- 2011-2012 H.M.S. Pinafore
- 2012-2013 The Happy Prince
Antonio Cipriano is a senior at University Liggett Upper School in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, This year he was the Sutton Foster Ovation Award NHSMTA Winner for the state of Michigan and was among the top four finalists in the National High School Musical Theatre Awards, “Jimmy Awards”. Cipriano has also received awards for superior achievement in solo musical theatre from the Michigan Youth Arts Festival two years in a row.
In 2013 Antonio Cipriano played the Prince in MOTCC’s production of The Happy Prince. Since then, Antonio has performed in theatre productions with the Birmingham Village Players, Grosse Pointe Theatre and recently performed the role of Mickey McKee in the University of Liggett Upper School’s production of Hello My Baby.
What was your experience like at MOTCC?
My experience at MOTCC was one of the biggest learning experiences of my life. I learned how to read and perform music at a very high level for my age. The opportunities that I had while being a part of this group were unbelievable. I had the privilege of performing at the Michigan Opera Theatre in a main stage opera. I also played a leading role on that stage. This all happened before I turned eleven. Not many eleven year olds get to say that. The teachers who worked with us were so knowledgeable about their craft and all they wanted to do was help us exceed expectations of regular kids. In order to do that, they treated us as professionals, and had high expectations for us. This may have been a little scary at first, but throughout my time there, I realized that they want the best for us, and they made us so much better than we could have ever imagined.
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
Be a sponge. Soak up all the information and knowledge that is being given to you. As I stated before, the experiences you will have while you are in that program will stay with you for a lifetime. When I was younger, I didn’t necessarily realize the amazing opportunities I was getting. Now that I am older, I finally realized how lucky I was to have had those opportunities, and some of them have actually inspired me to pursue music as a career.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
I plan on majoring in musical theatre in college. Even though I will be studying musical theatre, I really want to do all forms of the art such as film and opera as well. I have just been cast in a show that is slated to go to Broadway next year, so depending on where that show goes, that will determine this next year of my life. MOTCC was a big part of why I want to pursue performing as a career because of the amazing professionals that worked with us every day inspiring us to push for more than just the ordinary.
My experience at MOTCC was one of the biggest learning experiences of my life. I learned how to read and perform music at a very high level for my age. The opportunities that I had while being a part of this group were unbelievable. I had the privilege of performing at the Michigan Opera Theatre in a main stage opera. I also played a leading role on that stage. This all happened before I turned eleven. Not many eleven year olds get to say that. The teachers who worked with us were so knowledgeable about their craft and all they wanted to do was help us exceed expectations of regular kids. In order to do that, they treated us as professionals, and had high expectations for us. This may have been a little scary at first, but throughout my time there, I realized that they want the best for us, and they made us so much better than we could have ever imagined.
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
Be a sponge. Soak up all the information and knowledge that is being given to you. As I stated before, the experiences you will have while you are in that program will stay with you for a lifetime. When I was younger, I didn’t necessarily realize the amazing opportunities I was getting. Now that I am older, I finally realized how lucky I was to have had those opportunities, and some of them have actually inspired me to pursue music as a career.
What are your future goals and aspirations?
I plan on majoring in musical theatre in college. Even though I will be studying musical theatre, I really want to do all forms of the art such as film and opera as well. I have just been cast in a show that is slated to go to Broadway next year, so depending on where that show goes, that will determine this next year of my life. MOTCC was a big part of why I want to pursue performing as a career because of the amazing professionals that worked with us every day inspiring us to push for more than just the ordinary.
We're only 4 weeks away from our annual A Winter Fantasy Concert! Each week we will feature one of the alumni soloists returning for this special 10th anniversary event on December 17.
Name: Kristine Overman
Hometown: Farmington Hills
Seasons in MOTCC:
Name: Kristine Overman
Hometown: Farmington Hills
Seasons in MOTCC:
- 2008-09 Brundibár
- 2009-10 The Very Last Green Thing
- 2010-2011 The Maker of Illusions
Kristine Overman is an American-French Soprano who was born in Farmington Hills, Michigan. She first found her love for opera at 10 years old when she joined MOTCC. She went on to pursue a BM in Vocal Performance at the University of Michigan. Overman appeared as the soprano soloist in Mozart’s Requiem, in a collaborative production with Michigan University Choir and Michigan Youth Orchestra. She recently performed the role of the Countess in Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro with Prague Summer Nights and will perform this role again with the University of Michigan next spring.
What was your experience like at MOTCC?
My experience in MOTCC was nothing short of life changing. I came in as 10-year-old who had always been good at singing, but knew NOTHING about opera. I emerged a fairly competent young singer with stage experience at a major opera house! I knew from my first time onstage, as a chorister, in Carmen, this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I was also fortunate to have been chosen perform as a Spirit for Michigan Opera Theatre’s main stage production of Mozart’s Magic Flute. It was absolutely invaluable to be able to glean that kind of knowledge and experience at such a young age. I learned how to take criticism, take stage directions, and make connections which is so vital in this industry. I’m happy to say that some of my friends in MOTCC have become lifelong friends and among the loudest supporters of my ongoing career. I wouldn’t be living my dream every day if it wasn’t for this fabulous program!
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
I would advise any student currently involved with MOTCC to be exactly what they are: a student. Your job right now is to be curious, ask questions, and engage with those around you in order to learn. Soak up as much knowledge as you can, listen to your instructors and help build up your peers. Listen when you are given advice and criticism, and work hard to be the best you can be, while also realizing that you are young and you have a long time to hone your skills. Be kind to yourself, and try not to judge yourself or others too harshly. Above all, realize what an incredible blessing it is to work with industry professionals and form these connections now. Some people never get to live out their passion, so take advantage of this time now!
What are your future goals and aspirations?
In the near future, I will be graduating from the University of Michigan with a BM in Vocal Performance, after graduation I plan to apply for graduate school. I would love to study in Europe at some point. Ultimately, I would love to be able to share my voice with the world, and bring opera to my generation as I love the art form so much. To be able to call the major opera houses of this country home would be the ultimate gift, but until that day I am overjoyed to sing, learn, and share my passion with others.
My experience in MOTCC was nothing short of life changing. I came in as 10-year-old who had always been good at singing, but knew NOTHING about opera. I emerged a fairly competent young singer with stage experience at a major opera house! I knew from my first time onstage, as a chorister, in Carmen, this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I was also fortunate to have been chosen perform as a Spirit for Michigan Opera Theatre’s main stage production of Mozart’s Magic Flute. It was absolutely invaluable to be able to glean that kind of knowledge and experience at such a young age. I learned how to take criticism, take stage directions, and make connections which is so vital in this industry. I’m happy to say that some of my friends in MOTCC have become lifelong friends and among the loudest supporters of my ongoing career. I wouldn’t be living my dream every day if it wasn’t for this fabulous program!
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
I would advise any student currently involved with MOTCC to be exactly what they are: a student. Your job right now is to be curious, ask questions, and engage with those around you in order to learn. Soak up as much knowledge as you can, listen to your instructors and help build up your peers. Listen when you are given advice and criticism, and work hard to be the best you can be, while also realizing that you are young and you have a long time to hone your skills. Be kind to yourself, and try not to judge yourself or others too harshly. Above all, realize what an incredible blessing it is to work with industry professionals and form these connections now. Some people never get to live out their passion, so take advantage of this time now!
What are your future goals and aspirations?
In the near future, I will be graduating from the University of Michigan with a BM in Vocal Performance, after graduation I plan to apply for graduate school. I would love to study in Europe at some point. Ultimately, I would love to be able to share my voice with the world, and bring opera to my generation as I love the art form so much. To be able to call the major opera houses of this country home would be the ultimate gift, but until that day I am overjoyed to sing, learn, and share my passion with others.
We're only 5 weeks away from our annual A Winter Fantasy Concert! Each week we will feature one of the alumni soloists returning for this special 10th anniversary event on December 17.
Name: Maddie Thibault
Hometown: Grosse Pointe
Seasons in MOTCC:
Madeline Thibault performed in three productions with MOTCC and in 2011 she performed the role of Amy in MOT’s production of The Very Last Green Thing. She is currently pursuing a MM in Vocal Performance at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre and Dance. This summer, Thibault participated in the Young Artist Summer Program at The Seagle Music Colony where she performed the role of Clara in the The Light in the Piazza. Her most recent role was Kitty Packard in the University of Michigan’s production of William Bolcom’s new opera, Dinner at Eight.
Name: Maddie Thibault
Hometown: Grosse Pointe
Seasons in MOTCC:
- 2007-08 The Makers of Illusions
- 2008-09 Brundibár
- 2009-10 The Very Last Green Thing
Madeline Thibault performed in three productions with MOTCC and in 2011 she performed the role of Amy in MOT’s production of The Very Last Green Thing. She is currently pursuing a MM in Vocal Performance at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre and Dance. This summer, Thibault participated in the Young Artist Summer Program at The Seagle Music Colony where she performed the role of Clara in the The Light in the Piazza. Her most recent role was Kitty Packard in the University of Michigan’s production of William Bolcom’s new opera, Dinner at Eight.
What was your experience like at MOTCC?
I loved every moment of singing with MOTCC. I was there from middle school through my sophomore year of high school. In grade school, I knew I loved music but there were not many opportunities to perform at my school. When I auditioned and became a part of MOTCC my whole life changed. I finally felt as though I was doing something I loved and meeting people that understood my love for music. It was such a friendly, nurturing environment to begin what has been an incredible journey of performing and learning this craft.
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
The advice I would give is to never take anything that MOTCC gives you for granted. You are so incredibly blessed and lucky to be part of such a wonderful program. Soak in every performance and pay close attention to the professionals you meet and the people you get to work with. Most importantly, love and enjoy what you are doing. You are so young and have so much to offer and give this world, let your light shine in everything you do and work hard. I promise if you work hard and love every moment of performing and practicing you will never actually feel like you are working and the pay off will be worth it in the end.
What are your future goals and musical aspirations?
My future goals are to perform and be on stage as much as possible. I would love to have a successful career in both opera and musical theatre. I want to bring classical music back to younger generations and, through my passion for this art form, encourage people to continue to love and support the arts.
I loved every moment of singing with MOTCC. I was there from middle school through my sophomore year of high school. In grade school, I knew I loved music but there were not many opportunities to perform at my school. When I auditioned and became a part of MOTCC my whole life changed. I finally felt as though I was doing something I loved and meeting people that understood my love for music. It was such a friendly, nurturing environment to begin what has been an incredible journey of performing and learning this craft.
Is there any advice you would give to students in the MOTCC now?
The advice I would give is to never take anything that MOTCC gives you for granted. You are so incredibly blessed and lucky to be part of such a wonderful program. Soak in every performance and pay close attention to the professionals you meet and the people you get to work with. Most importantly, love and enjoy what you are doing. You are so young and have so much to offer and give this world, let your light shine in everything you do and work hard. I promise if you work hard and love every moment of performing and practicing you will never actually feel like you are working and the pay off will be worth it in the end.
What are your future goals and musical aspirations?
My future goals are to perform and be on stage as much as possible. I would love to have a successful career in both opera and musical theatre. I want to bring classical music back to younger generations and, through my passion for this art form, encourage people to continue to love and support the arts.
Jehnya Footitt
Chorister: Jehnya Footitt
Hometown: Detroit
Years with MOTCC: 6
Jehnya Footitt is the head chorister for this year’s Michigan Opera Theater Children’s Chorus 2017-18 season. Leading by example, she dedicates extra time to assist MOTCC directors as well as her peers in the program. She dances in the pre-professional dance company, ArtLab J II and is an ambassador for Ballet in the City, representing Michigan and the City of Detroit. Look for Jehnya perform in A Winter Fantasy Concert December 17th and Gilbert and Sullivan’s H.M.S. Pinafore in the spring of 2018.
What do you do for fun?
Other than singing at the Opera House, I dance…a lot.
When did you discover you can sing?
I never really discovered that. We saw H.M.S. Pinafore the year before I joined the MOTCC. My Mom said, “Oh you guys should audition for this.” I was really bad at singing. So, we got our training, and I prepped for the audition. And we got in!
What advice would you like to give to first time MOTCC members?
I know that it can be pretty intimidating at first especially because it’s inside the Detroit Opera House. You want to keep your professionalism up but also try to have fun. You’re going to do so many new things, and meet so many new people. I guarantee that you will want to come back.
What are you most looking forward to doing in MOTCC this year?
Improving my leadership skills by being head chorister.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I have two options. Dancing still, I would like to go to college to dance. Also, I want to be a doctor. So, I have to choose which one.
Other than singing at the Opera House, I dance…a lot.
When did you discover you can sing?
I never really discovered that. We saw H.M.S. Pinafore the year before I joined the MOTCC. My Mom said, “Oh you guys should audition for this.” I was really bad at singing. So, we got our training, and I prepped for the audition. And we got in!
What advice would you like to give to first time MOTCC members?
I know that it can be pretty intimidating at first especially because it’s inside the Detroit Opera House. You want to keep your professionalism up but also try to have fun. You’re going to do so many new things, and meet so many new people. I guarantee that you will want to come back.
What are you most looking forward to doing in MOTCC this year?
Improving my leadership skills by being head chorister.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I have two options. Dancing still, I would like to go to college to dance. Also, I want to be a doctor. So, I have to choose which one.
Newsies: 4 Box Seats on December 20, 2015 at 6:30 pm
They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines…Direct from Broadway comes NEWSIES, the smash-hit, crowd-pleasing new musical from Disney. Winner of the 2012 Tony Awards® for Best Score and Best Choreography, NEWSIES has audiences and critics alike calling it “A MUSICAL WORTH SINGING ABOUT!” (The New York Times) Filled with one heart-pounding number after another, it’s a high-energy explosion of song and dance you just don’t want to miss. ***Note: Not redeemable for cash value; not exchangeable for different performance. Children under 5 not permitted.
They delivered the papers, until they made the headlines…Direct from Broadway comes NEWSIES, the smash-hit, crowd-pleasing new musical from Disney. Winner of the 2012 Tony Awards® for Best Score and Best Choreography, NEWSIES has audiences and critics alike calling it “A MUSICAL WORTH SINGING ABOUT!” (The New York Times) Filled with one heart-pounding number after another, it’s a high-energy explosion of song and dance you just don’t want to miss. ***Note: Not redeemable for cash value; not exchangeable for different performance. Children under 5 not permitted.
Archives
April 2018
March 2018
December 2017
November 2017
December 2015
November 2015
December 2014
August 2014
February 2014
December 2013
November 2013
MOTCC Updates
A blog for sharing MOTCC updates
RSS Feed