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HIGH-FLYING CLASSIC ROMANCE PRESENTED BY TOLEDO OPERA
Toledo opera opens its season with Romeo and Juliet by French composer
Charles Gounod, whose gorgeous music thrills with its high-flying romanticism – the
classic tale of two young people who move from the effervescent of first love
to deep, fatal passion.
Performances, at the intimate Valentine Theatre in downtown Toledo, are Saturday,
October 7 and Friday, October 13 at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on October
15 at 2:00 p.m. Each performance is preceded by an informal pre-opera chat
in the theater lobby. Providing insights about an opera's historical timeline,
its composer's life and the background of the opera, these talks, free to ticket-holders,
are designed to enhance the enjoyment of the performance.
Gounod’s magnificent arias and stunning love duets brought Romeo and Juliet enormous
success at its 1867 world premiere in Paris. Set in 14th-century Verona, the
opera is loosely based on Shakespeare’s play, following the star-crossed
lovers’ journey from instant attraction, secret marriage and – victims
of cruel fate – tragic death in each other’s arms.
The opera will be conducted by Grammy Award-winning conductor Thomas Conlin and
directed by Marc Verzatt, recently voted Stage Director of the Year by Classical
Singer magazine. Peter Dean Beck is the scenic designer, and the costumes
are by John Lehmeyer. The Toledo Symphony provides instrumental support, and
dancers from the Toledo Ballet Association will enhance the dance sequences with
choreography by Arkadiy Orohovsky.
Singing the demanding role of Juliet, soprano Barbara Shirvis returns to Toledo
after her recent sensational success in Toledo Opera’s production of Pagliacci.
Known for her gorgeous tone, impressive vocal mastery and touching vulnerability,
Ms. Shirvis has performed with opera companies throughout North America.
Making his debut with Toledo Opera, tenor Eric Fennel will perform the role of
Romeo. Mr. Fennel's opera experience includes leading roles with San Francisco
Opera, New York City Opera, Seattle Opera, Boston Lyric Opera, Glimmerglass Opera,
Chautauqua Opera, Arizona Opera, Tulsa Opera and Central City Opera. Returning
from a recent successful debut at Opera Theatre of St. Louis, mezzo-soprano Leah
Wool will perform the role of Stephano. Other singers in the cast include Stephen
Bryant, Stefan Szkafarowsky, Ann McMahon Quintero, Lee Gregory, John Pickle,
Micah Graber, Art Joslin, Armando Linares and Aaron Sanko.
This ultimate love story, which has long epitomized the concept of an ideal love
that conquers all, is suitable for all ages. Toledo Opera has given the production
a rating of "R" for "romantic." Single
ticket prices begin at $25.00 and may be purchased online at toledoopera.org
or by phone at 419-255-7464. Discounts are available for students, seniors and
groups of 10 or more. Romeo and Juliet will be sung in French with English
translations projected above the stage. Generous support for this production
is provided the Ohio Arts Council and Fifth Third Bank. |
