When did you work with FBN Productions, Inc.? Which production?
David: I began working for FBN Productions, Inc. in the spring 2000 as the tour manager. That year we toured 4 productions: The 3 Little Pigs, Goldilocks, The Telephone, and Bastien and Bastienne. Over the following 12 years I moved into directing shows for FBN including Pinocchio and Jack and the Beanstalk.
What have you been up to since?
David: Since then I have been directing opera around the country. Last season I made my directing debuts at several different companies including: North Carolina Opera, Tri-Cities Opera, and Opera Idaho.
What are you up to now?
David: I currently work as a freelance opera stage director. I just came off of a project at Washington National Opera and the Assistant Director for the world premiere of Philip Glass’ revised “Appomattox”. It was incredibly exciting to work alongside a man I studied about in music history 25 years ago!
How is the experience of working for FBN prepared you for your career? How has it shaped you as a director and as an artist?
David: Working for FBN and with Ellen provided me the opportunity to experience real responsibility. Coming to grips with the fact that my decisions had an impact on the overall success of a project was a good lesson to learn as I made the transition from being a Masters’ student to becoming a professional.
What is the most memorable experience from your time with FBN?
David: Working for FBN off and on over the span of 12 years has left me with many wonderful memories. What sticks in my mind most is developing new productions with Teddy Moore (set designer), Alexis Doktor (costume designer) and Ellen (fearless leader), and knowing that these production have and continue to introduce school children to the world of opera, music, and art.
How can our readers keep up with your latest accolades?
David: People can follow me on my website: DavidCarlToulson.com