Traditionally, opera doesn’t require much technology. There are no microphones and lights are about all you need. But at the Regina Opera Company, the Dyker Heights–based belter’s brigade, high-tech “super title” equipment has been installed to project an English translation of the librettos above the stage.
“We knew that they existed but didn’t have the money for it,” said Francine Garber, Regina’s executive vice president. “I was advised by the Brooklyn Arts Council that JP Morgan Chase was giving out grants. So I applied for a grant for the super title equipment, and I got it!”
The $3,000 machine, which the company is using tonight through June 8 to translate Verdi’s “Il Trovatore” from the Italian, is more than just a shiny, new toy, though. Garber said it will bring folks who were previously wary of hours of song in a foreign language back to the theater.
“We can do operas that aren’t as well known now,” she said. “Even if people don’t know the plot, there it is! They can just read along.”
Does this newfound tech-savvy mean that the 38-year-old company — which presents fully staged operas with live orchestra accompaniment — will be bringing in more bells and whistles?
“If I find someone who wants to pay for more, we’ll be happy to put that in,” said Garber.
The Regina Opera Company performs “Il Trovatore” at 7 pm on May 31 and June 7 and 3 pm on June 1 and June 8 at Regina Hall (12th Avenue and 65th Street in Dyker Heights). Tickets are $20. For information, call (718) 232-3555 or visit www.reginaopera.org. — Adam Rathe
