The Jacobs School of Music Opera and Ballet Theater will begin its spring season this February, with all performances taking place at the Musical Arts Center.
“Giulio Cesare”
This Italian opera, set in 48 B.C., tells the story of Cleopatra and Julius Caesar. Caesar is attempting to add Egypt to the Roman Empire. This becomes complicated when Ptolemy, Cleopatra’s dishonorable brother, seizes the throne. Caesar must side with either Ptolemy or the seductive and manipulative Cleopatra. "Giulio Cesare" will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 1-2 and 8-9.
“The Elixir of Love”
Lothario seems to have the worst luck when it comes to love. His dream girl will not even look his way and a handsome military man is also pursuing her. However, the mysterious Dr. “D” seems to have a solution to all of Lothario’s heartache. He presents Lothario with a potion guaranteed to make him irresistible, but the effects are not quite what he was expecting. This humorous opera will be performed in Italian with English translations projected above the stage at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 22-23 and March 1-2.
Spring Celebration ballet
This ballet production consists of four parts, each highlighting a different aspect of spring. The first half includes more serious acts, with themes of connection and the human existence. The final two parts have more comedic characters and scenarios. The Spring Celebration ballet will be performed at 7:30 p.m. March 22-23 and also at 2 p.m. March 23.
Bernstein’s “Mass”
This production, with music by Leonard Bernstein, was commissioned by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1971 to honor her late husband, President John F. Kennedy, and promote the opening of the Kennedy Center. The music consists of rock bands, choirs, jazz instruments, dancers and blues singers. It explores the complex relationship between an individual and religion. Bernstein’s "Mass" will be performed at 7:30 p.m. April 5-6 and 12-13 and also at 2 p.m. April 7.
