For their Spring Production, the Department of Music’s Opera Workshop will perform Mozart’s “The Marriage of Figaro” in Cullen Auditorium.
Though there have been many renovations to the space recently, the performance will be one of the first in the space since completion.
Dr. Rick Piersall, director of opera, said he is excited to perform this production for the Abilene community.
“It’s a great show all about politics,” Piersall said.
The Opera Workshop, which is open to majors and non-majors alike, works to put on two staged productions each year, both in the Fall and the Spring. After audiences enjoyed the eighth annual production of “Amahl and the Night Visitors” in the Fall. Piersall said the department expects to see a similar reaction to the Spring show.
Those participating meet between four and six hours a week to rehearse, memorize and prepare for the production. From the set design to the costumes, students are involved in nearly all aspects of the show.
Sarita Aguilar, speech pathology major from Fort Worth, said she hopes to do more opera productions in the future.
“I’m ready to get more involved in music since I’m not a music major,” Aguilar said. “I’ve really missed performing and am excited to perform in a whole new environment.”
Aguilar is taking Opera Workshop for the first time this semester.
Piersall and Marc Sanders, directors, are working with 22 students to put together a “new” production of the opera.
Piersall promises to use set pieces and costumes to create an unseen version. He said he hopes this unique version will entertain audiences.
The Opera Workshop will perform “The Marriage of Figaro” on March 29 and March 30.