Tuesday, December 8, 2009

"Amahl and the Night Visitors" Opens This Weekend

Union Avenue Opera presents Gian Carlo Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors for the first time this weekend. Journey back in time to the Middle East during the first century, and meet the young, crippled shepherd Amahl, and his mother. One mysterious night, a knock at their door reveals three kings on a long journey. Will Amahl’s mother’s dream of a better life for her disabled son be answered? Discover the kings’ wondrous generosity and Amahl’s selflessness as a miracle ensues.

UAO’s Artistic Director and Conductor Scott Schoonover has collaborated with stage director Tim Ocel—known for his work at OTSL, New Opera St. Louis and the University of Kansas—to present this holiday favorite. The crew also includes Allyson Ditchey (stage manager), Jennifer Medina (choreographer) and designers Tina McCartney (costumes), Jonathan Loesch (sets) and Patrick Huber (lighting).

Ricky Johnson and John Schultz alternate the role of Amahl (Johnson on Thur/Sat; Schultz on Fri/Sun). Mezzo-soprano Holly Wrensch, last seen as Filipyevna in 2003’s Eugene Onegin, sings the role of Amahl’s Mother. Making his Union Avenue Opera debut, Tenor Robert Boldin sings King Kaspar. Baritone Robert Garner, most recently seen as Count Almaviva in 2006’s Le Nozze di Figaro, sings King Melchior. Bass-Baritone Patrick Blackwell returns after his engagement as Ferrando in this summer’s Il Trovatore to sing King Balthazar. Tenor Philip Touchette, last seen as the Fortune Teller in Lakmé will sing The Page. A chorus of local singers and dancers rounds out the cast.

School groups are invited to attend a FREE Student Matinee production on December 10 at 10am. Fox Charitable Performing Arts Foundation and the Boeing Employee Community Fund sponsor this event. Seating is limited. Inquire with the company for availability.

Amahl and the Night Visitors runs December 11, 12 and 13. Performances begin at 8pm Friday/Saturday and 3pm on Sunday. Tickets range $25-$47; $15 for children. For tickets & more information on the opera as well as the Student Matinee, call Dana Stone at 314.361.2881 or visit http://www.unionavenueopera.org/

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