A tour-de-force for high coloratura voices, culminated by the aria "Ah mes amis" made famous by Pavarotti with its mind boggling 9 high Cs, Gaetano Donizetti's La fille du Régiment ("The Daughter of the Regiment") will open this Friday at Union Avenue Opera. The rambunctious tomboy Marie, an orphan girl raised by France's 21st infantry and serving as its vivandière, is sure to capture hearts, but how will her 'fathers' feel about her falling in love with Tonio, a mere civilian...and an Austrian? The comedic plot takes a twist as Marie learns of regal family ties and is betrothed to an aristocrat. Will the regiment save their 'daughter' from a loveless marriage?
Soprano Erica Cochran, returning to Union Avenue Opera after her debut in 2007's Suor Angelica (Suor Genovieffa) and Gianni Schicchi (Nella), sings Marie. Fresh from his appearance in The Pirates of Penzance, Baritone David Dillard takes on the role of Sergeant Sulpice, Marie's "head father." Baritone E. Scott Levin, Baron Zeta in last season's Die lustige Witwe, appears as Hortensius. Three artists make their UAO debut in this production, including Tenor Gregory Schmidt as Tonio, Mezzo-soprano Dixie Roberts as La Marquise de Berkenfeld and Baritone Cory Schantz as the Corporal.
UAO Principal Stage Director Jolly Stewart stages her thirteenth production with the company. Sarah Rugo serves as Stage Manager. The design team includes Patrick Huber (scenic and lighting) and Lyn DeMoss (costumes). Pianist Nancy Mayo serves as production répétiteur. Kostis Protopapas, of Tulsa Opera, serves as guest conductor. Protopapas was recently interviewed by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch about his experience conducting this production. The interview may be read by clicking here.
Be sure not to miss a free opening night lecture on the opera, taking place July 30 at 7pm in the Chapel of Union Avenue Christian Church. (Non-ticket buyers welcome.)
La fille du Régiment runs July 30, 31, August 7 & 8(M). Performances begin at 8pm, except 3pm matinee on Sunday, the 8th. Sung in French with projected English supertitles. Venue: Union Avenue Christian Church located at 733 Union Blvd in St. Louis. To purchase tickets or learn more about this production, please visit the Union Avenue Opera Website or call 314.361.2881
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