Rehearsal with L.A. Opera’s ‘Billy Budd’

Props sit ready during rehearsal.  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)

Prop master Allen Tate places the noose on the neck of Liam Bonner.  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)

Liam Bonner sings during rehearsal.  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)

A close-up of the shackles on the hands of Liam Bonner, who plays Billy Budd.  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)

Assistant director Trevore Ross directs actors in “Billy Budd.”  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)

Stage manager Lyla Pevzner, left, and assistant director Trevore Ross refer to a book of music during rehearsal.  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)

Actors lift a platform during rehearsal of Los Angeles Opera’s “Billy Budd.”  (Katie Falkenberg / Los Angeles Times)