Cultural Life: Claire Rutter, soprano

 

Charlotte Cripps
Friday 02 March 2012 01:00 GMT
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Rutter says: 'I probably don't listen to as much opera as people expect me to in my free time. Sometimes, I need to switch off from work.'
Rutter says: 'I probably don't listen to as much opera as people expect me to in my free time. Sometimes, I need to switch off from work.'

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Theatre: I went to see the ENO's 'Tales of Hoffmann'. There's some great singing from everyone. The production was very entertaining and a bit wacky in places, which appeals to me. It's quite a long opera, but Richard Jones's production didn't feel like it. I sat in the dress circle for the very first time – I usually sit in the stalls – and enjoyed champagne in the intervals. I think this production would also appeal to newcomers to opera. It was a worthwhile night out, and nice to be on the other side of the curtain.

Film: Well, it has to be 'The Woman in Black'. Amazingly chilling. I read the book by Susan Hill, a while ago and the film certainly does the book justice. There are moments that really make you jump out of your seat! I'm pleased to say that Daniel Radcliffe has matured into an expressive and appealing actor. It's brilliant that this film has enabled him to shake off 'Harry Potter'.

Television: 'Call the Midwife' is one of the best Sunday night dramas I've ever seen. It's great to see what real life was like in the early 1950s in a very poor part of London, and it seems so hard compared to how life is now. I'm also enjoying the slightly crazy 'Whitechapel' detective series, again set in the East End of London.

Music: I listen to music like Michael Bublé, Coldplay and some random collections like the 'Ultra-Lounge' series, which harps back to the 1950s and 1960s and is great for dinner parties! I also like to listen to Brazilian and Latin music, if I fancy a bop around the kitchen. I probably don't listen to as much opera as people expect me to in my free time. Sometimes, I need to switch off from work.

Claire Rutter stars in Verdi's 'Aida' at the Royal Albert Hall, London SW7 (www.royalalberthall.com) until 11 March

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