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8 Ways to Break a Glass (With an American Opera Singer)

 
Johanna Makelainen Review by Johanna Makelainen 4 Published: 2 Aug 2025 Laughing Horse @ Dragonfly Show Dates: 31 Jul 2025-24 Aug 2025

There are at least eight ways an opera diva can break a glass – and just one involves her vocal cords. Get ready to shatter your expectations of opera as an elite art form that requires well-trained sitting muscles, binoculars and a mortgage for tickets.

With the full-body expression of a Valkyrie, she transforms the small room into Valhalla itself

The American soprano Steph DePrez, currently living in Berlin, is a rare breed: a Wagner-singing comedian. Her show is a masterclass in blending genres, as she effortlessly weaves her vocal talents with sharp wit and hilarious storytelling, making for a truly enjoyable Fringe experience.

Though DePrez is more than capable of breaking a glass with her voice, the magic lies in the metaphor. The show is all about smashing the glass ceilings that life throws our way – whether in the opera world, comedy, or simply in being human. Things don’t always come easy. From the moment you declare to your parents that you’re going to become an opera singer and perform Wagner’s Ring, to actually wearing the Valkyrie’s armour on stage, it’s a long and winding road of disappointments, missed opportunities and a pandemic thrown in for good measure.

In classical opera terms, a soprano singing Wagner must possess an immensely powerful voice, capable of heroic declamation, soaring lyricism in the upper range and the stamina to sustain long, demanding passages over a full orchestra. In common terms: these sopranos don’t just sing – they summon thunderstorms, bend brass sections to their will, and make the violins quake in fear.

So what makes a successful opera diva trade the grandiosity of an opera house for a stand-up gig at the Fringe? The pure joy of performance, the thrill of making people laugh and the desire to explore different facets of artistic identity. The essence of DePrez’s performance lies in genuine connection – whether through a soaring aria or a perfectly timed punchline. With the full-body expression of a Valkyrie, she transforms the small room into Valhalla itself, announcing that Brünnhilde has arrived.

Telling her life story through metaphor gives DePrez’s storytelling structure, but loses some of the spontaneity and raunchiness of her earlier comedy performances, which I particularly enjoyed. However, her ability to combine serious vocal chops with relatable humour, delivered with infectious energy, will leave you buzzing for a long time.

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The Blurb:

Berlin's beloved opera-singing comedian returns with a combination of opera, musical theater, comedy, and storytelling. From heartbreak to high notes, no topic is off limits: we're talking boobs, blowjobs, and Beethoven. Whether you prefer Carnegie Hall or The Comedy Store, this show is perfect for fans of Renee Fleming, Iliza Shlesinger, and everyone in between. Last year's audiences: 'Tears rolled down my cheeks as I laughed so hard'; 'I've been to scores of Fringe shows but I will remember this one.' 'I'm in awe of her talent.'