There is nothing quite like being with friends and people of good will on the eve of the New Year, or Sylvester, as we call it in Germany. There are several traditions in regards to these celebrations.

When I was young we celebrated at home, with music, good food, nothing too sweet after all the Christmas treats, "Berliner Ballen" and "Champagner" at midnight, poring molten metal in cold water to see what our future would bring, and "Wunderkerzen". It was always great fun.

When I was older I could borrow a costume from the local theatre. I remember once I had a pink chiffon job, the costume of the "Schoene Helena", a buxom soprano. I had to be sewn into it, because it was at least four numbers too big, but boy, did I look grand with my hair piled high and pink roses in it.

You won’t believe, but I was home 15 minutes after midnight. I only stayed as long as was necessary not to embarrass my host and then left the grand ball in the town’s most feudal hotel, without my escort. Reason? Figure it out yourself; I was 19 and the first time allowed out alone at such an occasion.

Going to the opera or operetta

My most favourite activity on New Year’s Eve is to go to the opera or operetta. This year I asked too late and we went to the opening night instead. Toronto Operetta Theatre presented the Count of Luxemburg and as operettas go this was another worthy and soapy slice of life from another area, complete with falling in and out of love, confusions to thicken the plot and a happy ending, of course.

The TOT started its relatively long existence with this crowd pleaser and the comeback proves it is an evergreen.

Instead of Guillermo Silver-Marin the multitalented Keith Klassen portrayed the Count René. With his ready smile and agile physique he easily dazzled the ladies. He had no trouble with the songs, the acting, the dancing, he was an all-round pleasure to watch, as was his counterpart, the lovely Elizabeth Beeler as Angele. Someone mentioned that she occasionally looked like a very young Zaza Gabor. But she sings and acts a lot better!

There were several other fine singers but one has to be mentioned especially, the troublemaker in the story; the Russian Prince, wonderfully portrayed and sung by Rory McGlynn. There is no doubt in my mind that parts like this are ideal for him, as is English Operetta. His comedic timing, his mimic and agility and a very well rounded voice will surely keep him busy wherever such parts are cast.

The whole production was delightful with one very adaptable set, a lot of ensemble singing and dancing, meticulously blocked on the rather small stage. The orchestra under the baton of Kevin Mallon produced the most beautiful and familiar Lehar melodies that have always made our hearts sing.

We can hardly wait for the next production in February: Earnest, the Importence of Being, by Victor Davies and Eugene Benson. For tickets go to www.stc.com .

Happy New Year!

A packed house is always welcome in a German Club; and so it was at the Danube Swabian Club, Scarborough, as well as at the Hansa Club, Brampton. Both establishments reported a full house but were astounded with the visitors. Not all of them where of the local variety. Every year this event draws people that otherwise do not come often enough to be recognised. All this does not matter, as long as they are all of one mind, and that they are!

In good company

We ended up sitting with three couples that were well aware of who we were, but we had not made their acquaintance before. I am glad we did, they turned out to be wonderful, fun loving and sincere individuals, the kind where you can let down your hair and do not have to pretend to be the Duchess of Whatever…Many a good story was shared over the sumptuous dinner. A slightly Italian flavour snuck into the meal, but was well loved, like a dish of pasta in the beginning after the salad. The duck along side the roast pork was superb. Unfortunately, as usual with German clubs, there was too much food to eat.

Upstairs
Dancing in the "Stube"	Robert & Heidi Gutwein
Irmgard Walter, Robert & Heidi Gutwein, Reiner Walter	Sybille in conversation with Reiner Walter

Upstairs a disc jockey kept another group of people happy. This was also a good place to look for refuge from the rather enthusiastic noisy crown downstairs, perhaps with a glass of champagne.

Dancing into the New Year with Matt Lebar

Matt Lebar played tirelessly with his merry man from his vast repertoire. With him on the accordion and 3 other musicians, 2 of which played several instruments many styles of music found expression and were fervently danced to right up to the last second when the balloons came tumbling down from the rafters.

Synchronizing watches	Happy New Year

A toast with the special loved one and on I went to greet as many people as possible. The hugging and kissing and well wishing did appear to have no ending…but finally I felt I had not left anyone I knew out, but it is possible.

Happy New Year with Sybille

Just before it was time to go home a huge platter of fabulous sandwiches appeared. No leftovers there!

I took home, as I always do after such a soiree, a hefty cold or flu that surfaced after 3 days, just like the book says.

I can promise you that next year I will not get flu, it is decided! Instead I will start my New Year Happy, which I am, Healthy, pah, minor set back, and Lucky to have so many wonderful friends and acquaintances. We will meet again!

Happy New Year!