MESSAGE11

五十嵐先生が「思いっきりやりなさい」と
声をかけてくださいました砂川 涼子 ソプラノ歌手

“Just give it everything you’ve got.”
These words by the Artistic Director
made all the differenceSUNAKAWA Ryoko Soprano

My name is SUNAKAWA Ryoko. Congratulations for the 20th Anniversary to the New National Theatre.

【Most memorable performance】

My debut role at this Opera House was Liu in “Turandot”. After several auditions, I was given this wonderful opportunity and I remember feeling quite nervous about it. But then the Artistic Director IGARASHI Kiyoshi came to me and said, “Just give it everything you’ve got.” I did not have much chance to speak to him, but that one phrase changed my attitude altogether. I was determined to sing with the very best of my ability and managed to make a good start.

【What does the New National Theatre mean to me】

As many guest performers come here from all over the world, this helps me to feel a cosmopolitan atmosphere while still in Japan. It’s such a precious experience to rehearse with these performers of world class and being inspired by them in many ways. So for me, it’s a really wonderful place.

【Hopes for the 2017/2018 production of “Les Contes de Hoffmann”】

This will be my third time playing in this production, and I still remember the gorgeous staging which was very impressive. I also remember feeling honoured to share the stage with some big names, and I’m grateful to be performing with a fantastic cast again. I hope to cherish what I feel from the music and be in the best condition before the curtain opens.

【The attraction of opera】

Rather than trying to present reality, opera expresses a world of imagination through the voices of the singers. I think the attraction of opera lies in the beauty that strikes the audience’s emotions while steeped in that imaginative world.