This November, the Royal Opera House will present a production of The Tales of Hoffmann, Offenbach's tale of a poet named Hoffmann as he recounts his tragic love affairs with three women; a mechanical doll, a singer, and a courtesan. In our interview with Italian-American soprano Marina Costa-Jackson, who makes her ROH debut in the production, will tell us more about her experience and this show ahead of its run.
Marina Costa-Jackson headshot.
1. Could you share how your passion for opera singing began and what inspired you to pursue it as a career?
From a very young age, I was immersed in a world of music, growing up in a family where opera was deeply cherished. My mother hails from Palermo, Italy, and my father, after serving a two-year LDS mission in Italy, fell in love with the culture and raised us with Italian traditions. In fact, Italian was my first language. Family gatherings were always filled with music; it was almost a ritual to stand on a table and perform something like “O Sole Mio” or showcase our talents in some way. My passion for opera is largely thanks to my youngest sister, Miriam. At just 11 years old, she started mimicking Luciano Pavarotti, singing “Vesti la Giubba” with a maturity that was astonishing for her age. Her enthusiasm for opera led her to voice lessons, soon followed by my older sister, Ginger. However, as the middle child, I struggled with stage fright and was hesitant.
It wasn’t until I was 21 that I began studying voice seriously. The turning point came during a visit to Italy when I heard my sisters singing (ironically) “Belle Nuit” from *The Tales of Hoffmann*. Their voices were so beautiful and captivating that I realized nothing could be more important to me than this art form. From that moment on, I was fully committed, earning a place at the Academy of Vocal Arts, one of the leading opera schools in the United States without a music degree and within three years.
2. You will be making your Royal Ballet and Opera debut; how are you preparing for this milestone moment in your career?
This debut is incredibly special to me. It's not only an All-Star cast but also one of the greatest opera houses in the world. I initially had to let go of this contract due to the unexpected news that I was expecting my daughter, but when the production was rescheduled due to COVID, Peter Katona graciously offered me the opportunity again. I’m so excited to make my role debut just a few weeks after my amazing sister, Ginger Costa-Jackson. It’s truly a dream come true to share this milestone with her. She’s always been so supportive and has paved the way for me. She even joked when I last saw her, ‘See you on the other side—I'll warm up the stage for you.’
3. You will be performing in The Tales of Hoffmann; can you tell us a little bit about this show?
The Tales of Hoffmann is a fascinating opera by Jacques Offenbach that beautifully intertwines fantasy, romance, and tragedy. It follows the poet Hoffmann as he recounts his three great loves, each representing a different aspect of idealized womanhood. The opera is fantastical and musically stunning, with each act offering something unique—from the mechanical doll in Olympia’s act to the dark and seductive world of Giulietta.
4. Can you tell us more about the character you’ll be portraying in The Tales of Hoffmann?
I’ll be portraying Giulietta, a heartless femme fatale who is fully aware of the damage she causes to satisfy her desires. She’s manipulative, using her beauty and charm to lure Hoffmann into a dangerous game. Giulietta is glamorous and seductive, but there’s also a coldness to her that makes her so fascinating to play. I’m excited to delve into this role and bring her to life on stage.
5. What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of being an opera singer?
One of the most challenging aspects of being an opera singer is being away from family. It truly is a sacrifice. Additionally, there’s the constant demand for perfection. Balancing vocal technique with deep emotional expression, all while maintaining the stamina to perform in long, intense operas, is no easy task. It requires immense discipline, focus, and a never-ending commitment to refining one’s craft.
6. Is there a particular moment or scene in the show that you find especially meaningful or enjoyable?
The duet *“Belle nuit”* is extremely meaningful to me, as it marks the moment I chose to become an opera singer. I vividly remember seeing my sisters perform it for our family in Italy, and their voices were so beautiful and captivating that it inspired me to pursue this art form. Beyond its significance, the duet between Giulietta and Hoffmann is a dance of seduction and deception, filled with tension and emotion. The chemistry between the characters is electric. It’s a scene where the power dynamics are palpable, making it thrilling to perform.
7. What can audiences look forward to in this production of The Tales of Hoffmann?
Audiences can expect a visually stunning and emotionally charged production. Each act transports you to a different world, and the storytelling is both captivating and poignant. It’s a production that will leave a lasting impression.
8. Why do you think people should book tickets to see this performance?
This production of *The Tales of Hoffmann* is a must-see for anyone who loves opera, and even for those new to the art form who want to experience its magic. The combination of incredible music, powerful performances, and stunning visuals makes it an unforgettable experience. Plus, the chance to see this opera performed at such an esteemed venue with a talented cast and crew is something not to be missed.
Marina Costa-Jackson performs in The Tales of Hoffmann at the Royal Opera House from 7 November - 1 December 2024.
