Janinah Burnett | Sabrina Carten | Angela Simpson

Q & A with Angela Simpson

Soprano Angela Simpson returns to Michigan Opera Theatre as Serena in Porgy & Bess. She made company her debut in this role in the 1998 production. Recent engagements have included singing the role of Cilla in Margaret Garner.

What do you like most about Porgy & Bess?
I like the idea of community that's in the opera. Everyone takes care of everyone else. They look out for each other. It's an idea that needs to return to our own society today.

What's different about this production?
We are still in the early stages of rehearsal so it's hard to compare at this point. But every director has their own ideas about how they would like to see this piece done.

What is most challenging about playing Serena?
Balancing the drama and the music (singing). Serena is a very dramatic character. Her husband is killed early in the opera and there is a funeral. So finding and showing the emotion while singing with technique is very challenging for me.

Will you be doing anything new with her?
Mr. Terleckyj has me giving a little more drama with my character, but for the most part Serena has developed with me over the years and I won't be changing too much.

How has your visit been so far?
This is my third engagement with MOT and I am thrilled to be back. Detroit has been so wonderful to me with each visit. I love this city and its people and I am very honored to be asked to return and perform again.