This week, outstanding talent lights up the stage at UNCG Auditorium.
UNCG Opera Theatre, with the addition of Metropolitan Opera baritone Richard Zeller, mounts Verdi’s last opera, “Falstaff,” on Thursday, with two subsequent performances, on Friday and Sunday.
The revenge comedy is based on Shakespeare’s “Merry Wives of Windsor” and centers around duplicitous Falstaff – played by Zeller – who falls victim to a prank of fantastic proportions. The grand production, directed by David Holley, includes 10 principals, a chorus of 30, and the University Symphony Orchestra.
“For people that love opera, this is a real treat,” says Holley. “And for people who are just learning about opera, they will see a star in his prime.”
Fanciful costumes have been designed by Deborah Bell and created with the help of UNCG costume design students. Of particular notice is the the final masquerade scene that involves fairies, goblins, bats and more.
The set design is by Randy McMullen and UNCG design and production students, and Chip Haas serves as technical director.
For more information about “Falstaff” visit the UNCG Opera Theatre website. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. April 4 and 5 and at 2 p.m. April 7. Tickets are available from the UNCG Box Office: (336. 334.4392, 1 to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday), from Triad Stage online, by phone (336. 272.0160, 1 to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday) and at the door one hour before the performances at UNCG Auditorium.
By Susan Kirby-Smith
Photo by Martin W. Kane
