Future voices of digital opera: Re-imagining the diva

ABSTRACT

This article seeks to re-imagine the identity and role of the diva within a future realm of digital opera. Staged in three acts, the article presents some of the obstacles that obscure a radical rethinking of the opera diva, and signposts recent practice and ‘cyberpositive’ thinking that might act as an inspiration and catalyst for the evolution of new dramaturgy, composition and performance practices.

KEYWORDS:

• digital diva
• identity
• extended vocal techniques
• voice and technology
• kinaesonic interaction
• intimacy