_{OPERA PLACES} Soprano Lauren Margison takes us to Mainz, Germany

How long are you working on contract?
I am back in Canada for the month of May, but I had been in Mainz since early February and I will be back for more performances in June and July. I’m also incredibly excited to be joining the ensemble in Mainz come October. So, my journey with Mainz is only just beginning and I am over the moon about that.

What’s the opera house like?
The opera house is beautiful. According to Wikipedia it was built by Georg Moller between 1829 and 1833. Very sadly, the big theatre was destroyed by bombing in WWII but has since been restored. It is right in the heart of the city and very close to the beautiful and imposing Mainzer Dom.

Staatstheater Mainz © Lauren Margison

Best coffee or tea?
You know, this is where I am lacking. I have not hit up nearly enough cafes yet. I tend to make my own coffee, or pick up a cup at the canteen in theatre. Finding a cute coffee shop is definitely on my to do list, though.

Where is the most peaceful place in the city above?
In all honesty, I feel quite peaceful when I am anywhere in Mainz. I’ve really fallen in love with the city and the people I’ve met. Having said that though, I feel an even more profound sense of peace when walking along the Rhine up towards the Neustadt.

The walkway along the Rhine towards the Neustadt © Lauren Margison

Coolest bar or restaurant you’ve been to?
Oh man, the best cocktails I have had in the city were at a place called Spiritus. They have amazing mixologists on staff, and I had a wildly good Manhattan when I went there with my mom. The best meal and wine that I’ve had in Mainz was at a place that I naturally gravitated to given the name – Laurenz. *wink, wink* Beyond that, there are two other bars that I’d classify more as… shall we say “dive bars”, but where I’ve had some wonderful times with friends and colleagues – Schick, and Dorett.

 

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An activity you have done that is unique to the area? Seeing the gorgeous Chagall windows at the Stephanskirche. Is there something unexpected that happens locally that you discovered? My arrival in Mainz coincided with the Carnival, and my word… I have never experienced anything quite like that. It’s like Toronto’s St Paddy’s parade on steroids and lasts for nearly a week. I was impressed and terrified haha! How did you find your accommodation? I was lucky enough to have had my accommodation taken care of by the theatre for the first part of my stay, however when I return, I will be living with a friend that I met at the theatre. What’s the most important thing you think of when it comes to finding accommodation as a singer? Affordability, and location. Have you had a chance to explore some galleries or museums? This is very much still on my to do list as well. I am keen to visit the Gutenberg Museum particularly. Hopefully in July when my parents come to see the closing of Villi/Pagliacci we can all go together.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Is there anything you recommend beyond what we’ve asked here?
I recommend the beautiful Gonsenheim Wildpark. My mother and I did a lovely short hike through the woods that really reminded me of Ontario. It is always good for the soul to find the essence of home when abroad.