Playing the waiting game and staying optimistic: mezzo-soprano Catherine Daniel answers our Quarantine Questions.
Between mid-March and the present, how have you adjusted to this “new normal”?
“Adjusted is the word! Over the past two months I have seen my opera gigs postponed. Due to other unforeseen circumstances, I am now teaching a grade 2/3 French Immersion class. My days are spent lesson planning, walking, biking, watching Netflix and baking.”
Aside from your ability to work and perform, what do you miss most right now?
“Physical contact with my friends! You never realize how much time you spend out and about until you can’t go anywhere.”
What is a prediction you have for the opera industry during and after this pandemic?
“I feel things will start small as the physical distancing protocols are eased. There will be more house concerts and small-scale events. My sincere hope is that we will all end up in the big halls again.”
How do you imagine your re-entry into full-time work will look?
“On the positive days, I imagine that my gigs that have been postponed to 2021 will happen exactly as they’ve always happened. The border to the US will open and all will be well. I am trying to take it one day at a time.”
Catherine Daniel
Jenna is the editor and co-creator of Schmopera. She also writes for The Globe and Mail and Opera Canada. She’s a pianist and vocal coach, and working with singers is how she fell in love with opera.
