trial question re: opening statement

In California, is it possible for a defendant at trial (felony) to deliver their own opening statement without having to represent his or her self for the entire trial?

I think its pretty stupid for a person to represent himself at trial, but what if a defendant insisted on doing the opening statement himself, but wanted a lawyer to handle the rest, is that possible?

Orb

a defendant could certainly request the court to allow him to speak.

And if he is stupid enough, he could very well eliminate the need for the rest of the trial.