Faust

When I was eight years old, my mom brought me to the Orpheum theater to see The King and I starring Yul Brynner. According to my mom, we left at intermission - most likely because my Dad couldn't take another minute of musical theater and Yul's sexy bald head. I don't remember leaving early. I remember being glued to my seat, completely overwhelmed by the experience. The gilded theater, the mezzanine seats, the velvet curtains, the bathroom that seemed it's own mini palace - I can still see myself curled into my seat, terrified that I might fall onto the theater goers below yet never, ever wanting to leave such a beautiful, magical place.

So imagine my delight when I am invited to photograph Opera Memphis' production of Faust at the Orpheum. The gig is to cover both nights of the dress rehearsal, backstage, in the house.

Wherever I want to go.

I KNOW, right??

So wander I did, observing the orchestra warm up in the pit and the actors transform themselves into doomed souls.

The production itself was a gorgeous, moody, steampunk take on the classic opera, and I had fun capturing the details: Mephistopholes' dapper costume and creepy coiled nails to the metal gears as hair pieces. I had a ridiculous amount of fun and hope I have the chance to wander the halls again.