Opera: A note of denim

The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra in Jeans performs at Tel Aviv's Mann Auditorium.

By JONATHAN GOLDSTEIN
Sometimes, the thought of formal wear for a night out feels oppressive. Sitting in a concert hall, I cannot appreciate even the finest arts while the harsh feel of tweed against my legs distracts the senses. The music becomes merely a soundtrack to wandering fantasies of the comforts of denim. For far too long this preference for the casual has prevented me from enjoying live performances of high art. Years have gone by without my being able to fully appreciate a symphony. Finally, there is a solution. Now, I can drape myself from head to toe in that blue bliss, to the tunes of strings, percussion and brass, thanks to the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra (IPO) in Jeans concert series. In an effort to reinvent itself for the new millennium, the IPO introduces the series to attract a broader audience. The "Jeans" concept offers late night informal performances to lovers of casual wear and night owls like me. And even better, free beer is provided before the show and a DJ hosts a dance party afterwards. So if you can drink your ticket's worth in beer, this is the event for you. This ain't your normal night at the symphony. For the upcoming show, the IPO presents a selection of pieces including the aria, "Una Voce Poco Fa" from Rossini's The Barber of Seville and "Glitter and Be Gay" from Bernstein's Candide. The concert features Tomá_ Netopil conducting, Heinrich Schiff on the cello and Achinoam presenting and singing. The details however are inconsequential; this event is about the experience as a whole. Other IPO series include their Friday afternoon matinee to bring in the Sabbath with some class and "Intermezzo," coffee and concert on Friday morning. So, come get your drink on, your groove on, and get your culture on too. The IPO in Jeans performs at Tel Aviv's Mann Auditorium on Thursday, Jan. 15 at 10 p.m. For more information call 03-6211766 or to order tickets 1-700-70-30-30.