It’s All in the Details

“It’s the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.” – John Wooden

 It is an exhilarating journey taking ‘illusionAria’ from conception to final product.  With the success of the big production shows in March and the ‘mini-shows’ in April, there has been a lot of interest in the show.  Things are out percolating in the universe. (See highlights from the show here on Youtube for Spinella Tenor.)

It’s not that easy being able to sing all those songs in my ‘opera’ voice, hitting all the marks, acting out the song and then remembering every step for the illusions. You have to be aware and ‘in the moment’ for every song.  Even when something goes wrong, you have to make it look right on stage.  It’s a challenge every show; and that’s what makes the live performances so exciting.

But I was also, perhaps, a bit unprepared for the demands on my time for all the tiny details.  The e-branding and little things like logo design that need approvals.  The updated bio, the website, the new press kit, the newsletter and promotional materials that need to be duplicated quickly and sent out – all seem like tedious details, but details are important to the overall show.  And we are on a roll now!

My staff and crew have been invaluable.  I am always amazed at what they come up with.  My staff came up with a way to put the show set and props up in less than half a day and break it down in the same time.  That leaves more time for rehearsals. I just did a ‘mini-show’ in Orlando that people went wild over.  It can easily fit a venue for a smaller theater or convention or special event.  It was a successful fundraiser; and I did not get to bed until 5 am because of all the fun after the show.  I am always so touched when I get the standing ovations; and I am happy because it feels like I’ve done my job.  People really do love magic and beautiful music.  It’s a good feeling to know that you can do something you love; and that everyone enjoys it and goes home feeling a bit better.

I am very excited about the opportunities that are opening up right now.  I so enjoy working with my staff and crew, who have become like family and have been so supportive, innovative and creative.  If there is any success in this endeavor, I am bringing them along with me. That only seems fair.  So my decisions right now of which venue to pick and how to get everyone there with me is a meaningful one.

Everyone involved feels so confident about the show; we’re lining up proposals and bookings and also considering a global tour.  And while we are being conscientious with the details, we are also pushing to meet deadlines and everyone else’s schedules.  So it has been hectic, joyful and illuminating.

It reminds me of the story of the potter who went to apprentice with a master.  The apprentice showed the master his work.

The master said, “You need to smooth this edge; add a handle; and make the bottom level.”

The apprentice argued, “Master, these are but little details.”

So the master replied, “And that is the difference between mediocrity and excellence.”

For now, we press on with the details, the pursuit of excellence and upcoming events.  If you want to see more photos and event information, please like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Magical.Tenor.

My website is SpinellaTenorofillusions.com

For contact and booking information, please click here SpinellaTenorofillusions.com/contact

illusionAria comes to Venice, Florida

illusionAria is a new project that belongs in the theater of perplexity. It is so outrageous to describe. Once you enter the elaborately decorated arena, you will be entertained by some wonderfully talented up and coming singers. Lest you think that it is just another concert, let’s take a closer look.

This project has been a couple of years in the making. The music was specifically recorded with the Emmy-award winning Macedonia Radio Symphonic Orchestra. So the orchestral music fills the air. I begin the first act in costume by performing my Pavarotti impersonation. Yes, I am a professional tenor, singing live.

I have a quick change on stage and another song. My assistant comes onstage and disappears right before your very eyes, while I am singing. So yes, I am singing and performing magic simultaneously. Did I mention that Death makes an appearance?

Then I sing my new single, ‘Trust in Me,’ written and produced by Joe Vulpis.  Joe Vulpis also wrote and produced songs for somebody called Lady Gaga. But I digress. Of course, I am singing ‘Trust in Me’ to my lovely girlfriend/bride-to-be in the show. But she cheats on me; so naturally, I have to kill her or at least make the attempt.

Then we have the marvelous strength hand-balancing act from Cirque du Soleil. Did I mention that I get beheaded? Then we have the Chinese dragon dance. But I survive the beheading and finish the show with everyone’s favorite aria.

Somewhere in all this is a little intermission and some other tricks like levitating tables and disappearing birds (animatronic ones). I am sure that I have gotten a few things out of order; and I have a feeling that I am leaving something out, but then you will just have to come see the show to really understand this ‘stream of consciousness’ theatrical experience. It is a completely new and wondrous theatrical experience combining the art of theater, with the art of music, with the art of illusion, with the art of performing, with the art of athletics, with the art of acting and heaven knows what else all in one mesmerizing unforgettable show.

This is a step up from the last show. There is comedy and drama, joy and sadness, despair and hope – just as in life. And I am so happy to be working with a fantastic crew and cast who pulls together to make it work!

Of course, we are setting up the tents and seating in Venice, Florida. The seating can accommodate over 600 people. The stage is being specifically constructed for the show. Most importantly, proceeds from the show go to benefit the Venice Circus Arts Foundation and which is trying to Save the Venice Circus Arena.

I am thrilled to be a part of this cultural endeavor and pleased to bring this special, indefinable theatrical experience to Southwest Florida.

Evenings 7:30 pm

March 7, 8, 9 & 10
March 14,15, 16 & 17
March 21, 22 & 23

Matinees 1:30 pm
March 9, 10, 16, 17 & 23

Tickets $40, $30, $20.

You can find more about it by calling  941-275-4150   or purchase tickets online at http://illusionaria.ticketleap.com/