This semester, IU Opera & Ballet Theater will bring four new productions made up of students and professional singers.
The Musical Arts Center semester lineup includes productions from 19th century tragedies to 20th century crime dramas. Ticket prices vary from $10 to $43.
First in the MAC's season is Richard Strauss' “Ariadne auf Naxos,” running Feb. 2 to 10. The story begins when a wealthy man hires a serious opera company and a comedy troupe to perform in the same space at the same time. The opera will be performed in German with English subtitles displayed above the stage.
“With its gentle poke at 'high art,' this is Strauss at his sophisticated best, replete with luscious melodies and vocal pyrotechnics galore,” the IU Opera & Ballet Theater website says.
Next is “Lucia di Lammermoor,” which runs from Feb. 23 to March 3. The story follows Lucia Ashton and her beloved Edgardo of Ravenswood as a feud arises between their families.
The tragic opera’s “matchless music and riveting drama make it one of the most famous operas of all time,” the IU Opera & Ballet Theater website says.
This production will be presented in Italian with English subtitles.
Third in the season is the spring ballet, “America Dances,” from March 23 to 24. The opera will be split into three dances. The first is “La Source,” with music by French Romantic composer Léo Delibes.
The second dance, “Diversion of Angels,” was created by choreographer Martha Graham and Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Norman Dello Joio.
The final dance, “Sandpaper Ballet,” was choreographed by Mark Morris, “the most influential choreographer alive,” according to the New York Times.
Last in the season is “West Side Story,” running from April 6 to 14. The opera, based on the award-winning movie, follows Tony and Maria and their strained romance in the midst of their rival gangs, the Sharks and the Jets.
“Here is a modern-day Romeo and Juliet — a story of ecstasy, anguish and wildness,” the IU Opera & Ballet Theater website states.
The opera will feature the songs “Maria,” “America” and “Tonight,” among others from the movie.
Between classic stories, dramas and comedies, the MAC's upcoming season offers a variety of opera and dance for IU students and Bloomington residents alike.
