Canadian tenor Wesley Harrison takes us to Cologne, Germany, where he is a member of the International Opera Studio at Oper Köln. He is currently singing the role of Maurizio di Mauro in Elisabeth Naske‘s children’s opera Der Wunschpunsch (tickets and info).
Wesley is a recent graduate of the Canadian Opera Company‘s Ensemble Studio where he appeared in productions of Fidelio, La bohème, The Cunning Little Vixen, Don Pasquale, Nabucco and La reine-garçon. This season he will take the stage at Opera Köln in Die Zauberflöte, Manon Lescaut, Tancredi, Der Wunschpunsch, Freikugeln – der Freischütz in fünf Dimensionen, Ernani and Max und Moritz.
While in Cologne, Wesley shares where to find the most beautiful gardens, extravagant fireworks and best bar in the city. Read on to find out more.
City where you’re working?
I’m currently working in Cologne, Germany.
How long are you working on contract?
I’ll be here in the International Opera Studio for two years.
What’s the opera house like?
The main opera house is currently under renovation so we’re using a temporary space by the river. It’s a very large venue with three different rooms for performances. Next season, we’ll be reunited with the original opera house which looks to be a beautiful space with a lot of wood detailing inside!
Where is the most peaceful place in the city?
The Flora und Botanischer Garten is the most peaceful place in the city. I got to explore the gardens with my friends who came to visit, and it made for the perfect day off.
Best coffee or tea?
I must admit I’ve been slacking on my quest for good coffee in Cologne. Many of my colleagues suggest Coffice though.
Coolest bar or restaurant you’ve been to?
My favourite bar I’ve been to so far is Gaststätte Lommerzheim. I feel we had a VERY German experience there.
An activity you have done that is unique to the area?
During my second week here I was lucky enough to stumble across the Kölner Lichter – a fireworks display that happens along the Rhine.
Is there something unexpected that happens locally that you discovered?
In Cologne, they have their Carnival which begins November 11th, takes a slight pause around Christmas and picks up again in February. I’ve been told to prepare for very busy streets, lots of outdoor activities, and some crazy costumes!
How did you find accommodation?
I found a temporary accommodation online before moving. I’m now on the hunt for my own longterm place in the city.
What’s the most important thing you think of when it comes to finding accommodation as a singer?
The most important thing I think of when looking for accommodation is if can I practice there, or is it close enough to the opera house that I can make a quick trip to practice there.
Have you had a chance to explore some galleries or museums?
I haven’t yet. I’m hoping to check out the Ludwig Museum first when I’ve got some time!
Is there anything else you’d recommend?
I’d also recommend checking out the hiking trails here! There are a lot of huge green spaces around the city and some nice trails that are just a quick train ride away.
© Photo used with permission form the artist
Sightseeing in Cologne
© Wesley Harrison
The city at sunset
© Oper Köln – Sandra Then
In Manon Lescaut at Oper Köln
Der Wunschpunsch
Oper Köln
October 25 – November 1
KRISTA KRAKEL: Maike Raschke/Alina König Rannenberg
TYRANNJA VAMPERL: KS Dalia Schaechter/Alicia Grünwald
MAURIZIO DI MAURO: Rhydian Jenkins/ Wesley Harrison
BEELZEBUB IRRWITZER: Frederik Schauhoff/Tobias Lusser
MALEDICTUS MADE: Ferhat Baday/Lucas Singer
DER HEILIGE SYLVESTER: Elena Plaza Cebrián/Laura Kriese
TASTENDIENST: Sarang Choi
ORCHESTER: Gürzenich-Orchester Köln
Professor Beelzebub Irrwitzer is a dreadful sorcerer and poisoner, who takes pleasure in causing a lot of destruction in nature. But his devilish client is not at all satisfied with him this year, far too few Evil deeds, finds Maledictus Made, the devilish messenger. Therefore, at midnight, Irrwitzer’s time will run out, unless he quickly manages to secure a few more disasters in the world. Now only the satan-archaeo-lying-alcoholic Wish Punch can help him, which at the stroke of midnight turns all good wishes into their opposite. However, Irrwitzer only has half of the parchment containing the recipe; the other half is with his aunt, Tyrannja Vamperl, who happens to be visiting. She has exactly the same problem, and so both are now brewing the highly dangerous Wish Punch. Fortunately, Tomcat Maurizio and Crow Krista recognises the danger and they jointly take up the fight against the two villains, even though they initially do not like each other at all. But time is running out and the task is difficult…
The composer Elisabeth Naske is among the most renowned composers in the field of opera for children. From the fantasy book “Wunschpunsch” by Michael Ende (1989) she has created one of the most performed family operas, with both eerie-demonic and uproarious scenes. The stylistic range of the music extends from aria, recitative, and dance in classical opera through jazz and swing elements to contemporary musical theatre.
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