Hoffmann photos by Carter Krizman
Mostly from the tale of Giulietta (third act). Many thanks to Carter for letting me post them, and also to Cynthia Warner of the Examiner for sending them to me.
Intermission. In my version, the entire opera happens inside the tavern. At left is the bar, at right is a stage where the local artists and other good-for-nothings who frequent the tavern put on plays and cabarets. At the far left is an enormous wine barrel, from which Hoffmann's muse makes her entrance at the start.
"A smile that knows regret, a laughter laced with rue, a heart both wise and true: All these I've found in you."
"If I just had a proof of your love and affection ..."
"Are you mad? Leave my reflection?"
"Images caught in the glass can also be set free -- can be swept from the glass to be kept in my heart!"
Unseen, Dapertutto slips the diamond onto Giulietta's finger in trade for the mirror in which she has trapped Hoffmann's reflection.
Curtain call. Front row from left: Brian Rosen (Hermann), Wayne Wong (Luther/Krespel), Sara Couden (Luther's wife/Krespel's wife), Nora Martin (Nicklaus/Muse), Adam Flowers (Hoffmann), Angela Cadelago (Stella/Olympia/Antonia/Giulietta), Paul Murray (Lindorf/Coppola/Dr. Miracle/Dapertutto)
Adam, Angela, and Paul. The wonderful costumes were by Emilica Sun Beahm. Angela and Paul got to wear a different outfit in each act.
Nora after the show
Me in my homemade steampunk costume. Dave spotted the many-buttoned coat on a clearance rack at Macy's, and I added the brass chain and gewgaws.
I bought the felt top hat at Berkeley Hat Shop on Telegraph, and added the peacock feather and a pair of goggle-style sunglasses I'd sponge-painted gold.
In front of the entrance to the Julia Morgan Center.
Me again.