Kazushi Ono

Scofield: I really admire your thinking and the way that you perceive opera, Maestro Ono. I’ve read something you wrote about what it is to appreciate opera, and why the audience goes to the opera theater. I think you have said that, going to the opera gives us an appreciation for what it is like to live in the 21st century. I thought that was very meaningful, because sometimes opera is associated with a time one or two centuries ago. But for you, it’s a very living art form which brings meaning to life right now today, isn’t it?

Ono: Yes. Our responsibility is choosing the proper titles of the opera, and also choosing the adequate stage directors and singers. For example, for 20 years, the production of The Magic Flute has been played at the theater. But I have changed The Magic Flute which is staged by William Kentridge. And for this The Magic Flute, young people came, and students also came to the theater. This should be the first time for them to listen to the opera. And because of the very sensational drawing of William Kentridge himself, they had really enjoyed the show, listening to the music and watching the projections, and listening to the human voice and the orchestra. This is very gorgeous art to attract young people to the opera. It’s our big obligation.

Scofield: That is a really important mission, and I admire you for taking that on, Maestro Ono.