The SUU Opera is back with a high-octane production as part of the 2024-2025 Music Masterworks Series, directed by Professor Carol Ann Modesitt. This semester’s showing is a double feature with two chamber operas — “Sweet Betsy From Pike: A Horse Opera” by Mark Bucci and “Dido and Aeneas” by Henry Purcell. The opening night performance featured humor, drama, and, of course, vocals.
“Sweet Betsy From Pike” adds a fun, Wild West twist to an old folk ballad, making it a lighthearted and adventurous piece. On the flip side, “Dido and Aeneas” delivers a powerful, tragic love story set to stunning Baroque music. The mix of these two works offers something for everyone, from die-hard opera fans to those completely new to the art form.
Those unable to attend opening night can still see the shows on March 27, in the Thorley Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
SUU Opera is known for its high-energy, professional caliber performances, and this production is no exception.
“Opera has music, drama, and storytelling all combined in such a powerful way,” said Modesitt. “These two performances are a wonderful contrast of each other, with one being adventurous and light-hearted, and the other dramatic and historical.”
The SUU Music Masterworks Series showcases the talent at SUU, with this performance showcasing what the music department is able to do. The performance is free to SUU students, staff and faculty with a valid ID.
Author: Keira Orton
Photos courtesy of SUU Music Department
Editor: Tessa Cheshire
arts@suunews.net
