Heart of a Soldier is a compelling true story of two men who are the grit and grizzle of what we call American Heroes and I get to cover one of them: Dan Hill

 

This story is so amazing at all levels, and so close to the heart that it's hard not to get wrapped up in it. In this situation, the man is not only real, but he is alive, and will be here to see the production.  One wants to be as accurate as possible when performing the life of another.

Thursday, 8/18/11—Meeting Susan Rescorla. I just got off the phone with Susan Rescorla and we're planning a little Sonoma getaway—just us two silly girls—for Labor Day. I've gotten to know Susan so well over the 8 months that have passed since we first met at our Heart of a Soldier workshop and press conference in December of last year. It has been an honor to get to know this woman who is a perfect balance of resilience and vulnerability. Our first meeting, at least on my part, was full of anticipation and a healthy dose of fear. I was so nervous with questions..."What will she be like?", "Will I be able to sing this in front of her without crying?" and "Will she appreciate the work and give her approval?" So many unknowns.

 

Former Adler Fellow Melody Moore returns to San Francisco Opera to portray Susan Rescorla, the living widow of Rick Rescorla, in the world premiere of Heart of a Soldier. Rehearsals have only just begun, but already the experience is making quite an impact on the soprano. Read what Melody has to say as she reflects on her first week of rehearsals.