Artist in Residence, Victoria Vargas, will perform as a part of the Minnesota Opera on Wednesday, Aug. 30, at the Minnesota Public Radio's State Fair booth. Victoria spoke with Classical MPR's Jamila Joiner ahead of her Performance.
How long have you been associated with Minnesota Opera?
I have been associated with the Opera since the fall of 2010, when I moved to Minnesota to be a part of the company's Resident Artist Program.
What do you enjoy or what has been a highlight since you've begun performing with Minnesota Opera?
The community surrounding and supporting Minnesota Opera has really fostered my growth as an artist. The company has given me the chance to be a part of world premieres, explore unique repertoire, and perform large roles. In 2015, they gave me the opportunity to sing the title role in Carmen, which was an experience I will never forget.
Have you performed at the Minnesota State Fair in the past? If so, what was it like?
I have sung at the State Fair for a couple of years. It has always been a highlight of the season, as it was my first introduction to Minnesota. I love seeing all of the agriculture, and of course, eating the delicious food!
What sorts of things do you bear in mind when preparing a performance at the MN State Fair?
Something that I had never considered, until singing at the fair, was how smoky some of the food stands can be! Sometimes you have to be prepared to sing amidst the smoke of the french fries or pork chops. On a more serious note, other things to consider are the temperature (i.e. wearing cool enough clothing) and staying hydrated well before the performance.
Can you share a name of a piece or two that you'll be performing at the MN State Fair?
I will be singing the famous "Flower Duet" from Lakme. This piece is very standard in the operatic repertoire and is a personal favorite of mine. I'll also be singing the "Seguidilla" from Carmen.
When you're done with your performance, what are some of your State Fair must-have treats or must-do activities?
I love to see the vendors in the Grandstand, the Miracle of Birth barn, and of course, Mouth Trap cheese curds and Sweet Martha's cookies.
Visit the MPR booth at the corner of Judson and Nelson on Wednesday, Aug. 30, at 1 p.m., to the Minnesota Opera's live performance. If you're not at the fair, you can hear the live broadcast of the Minnesota Opera on Classical MPR. Steve Staruch hosts.
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