Pittsburgh Opera continues its 80th season with the classic fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, Hansel & Gretel. On stage November 3, 6, 9, & 11, Hansel & Gretel, is a fantastical story of a young brother and sister who must navigate an enchanted forest full of twists, turns, and one wicked witch.
Corrie Stallings, a former Pittsburgh resident artist will be singing for the role of Hansel. Described by the Maryland Theatre Guide as having a “Stunning and Luminous Timbre,” there’s no doubt that her highly anticipated return to Pittsburgh is enough to get your tickets now.
So, if you are looking for a good date night, girls’ night out, and family outing, this event will be perfect for you.
What made you want to become an opera singer?
I started performing in musicals at a very early age, so performing was always a huge part of my life. I didn’t take an interest in opera until high school when a voice teacher asked if I’d ever tried singing classical music—- once I sang my first art song, my voice took to it like a duck to water.
How did you land your spot with Pittsburgh Opera’s Resident Artist program?
I was lucky enough to be a part of Pittsburgh operas resident artist company 2014-2016 by auditioning in Cincinnati. Each year Pittsburgh opera holds auditions for their prestigious resident artist program all over the country. I was selected for a live audition after sending my resume and application. Then there were two rounds of auditions before I got the call that I was one of the newest members of the resident artist program!
What is your favorite thing to do in Pittsburgh?
My favorite thing to do in Pittsburgh is taking my pup Millie to Frick Park and brew gentlemen in Braddock. I’m a big fan of the amazing beer and food scene we have going on in da Burgh. I frequent dancing gnome, brew gentlemen, insurrection ale works, eleventh hour, and many more. Our city is so beautiful and full of awesome things to see and do, I absolutely love being an adopted yinzer!!!
What’s it like playing the role of a boy?
Playing a pants role is always fun! The more you do it, the easier it becomes. What surprises most people is how little I do to become a “boy” on stage. It’s all about small shifts in body language and expression. I also find it helpful to start small and layer on more as the process goes on. Depending on the boy I’m playing, I always find small things that define him in the rehearsal process. It’s fun playing a boy! You get a lot more freedom to play and explore when transforming to the opposite sex
What will the audience love about this Opera production?
I think the audience will love the simplicity found in the story of Hansel and Gretel! It’s obviously a fairytale, but the simplicity of the members of the family will speak to everyone in the audience. It’s going to be a blast visually and musically. A perfect first opera for families.
