Featured Event
Lyric Opera Ensemble: "Dialogues of the Carmelites"
Erin McOmber
In its most impressive production yet, the University of Utah Lyric Opera Ensemble will present Francis Poulenc’s “Dialogues of the Carmelites” on Friday & Saturday, April 23 & 24, at 7:30 p.m. in Kingsbury Hall. With renowned director Michael Scarola, who is visiting from the New York City Opera directing staff and a long-time friend of U opera producer Robert Breault, the student ensemble has plenty of qualified experts on hand to help pull off this ambitious production. The Lyric Opera Ensemble will be joined by the award-winning Utah Philharmonia, conducted by Robert Baldwin, which will provide stunning orchestral music to compliment the fine-tuned operatic voices of the cast.
A full-scale opera of such magnitude is a major undertaking for the student ensemble. Because of the significance of this compelling opera and the large cast it requires, "Dialogues" is rarely performed, and mostly done by major opera houses. For it to be tackled by a university student ensemble is a true testament to the talent and ambition of the performers.
Sung in French with English supertitles, "Dialogues des Carmélites" tells the story of a wealthy young heroine, Blanche de la Force (played by doctoral student Erin McOmber), who enters an order of devout nuns seeking refuge, but instead faces her fears and masters her life as the French Revolution unfolds. Produced by Robert Breault with musical director Jeffrey Price, this powerful, highly emotional score deals with themes of political power and freedom, personal spirituality, redemption and ultimate sacrifice.
Tickets are $20, $15, and $10, and can be purchased by calling 801-581-7100 or by going to www.kingsburyhall.org. Kingsbury Hall is located at 1395 E. Presidents Circle, University of Utah campus.
In anticipation of the show, local media are already paying close attention:
http://www.sltrib.com/arts/ci_14892924
http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700025084/Us-Lyric-Opera-Ensemble-tackles-rare-Poulenc-work.html
