News Summary
On May 10, the UCI Opera and UCI Symphony will perform a modern staging of Puccini’s opera, Suor Angelica, at the Irvine Barclay Theatre. The production explores deep themes of love and loss set in a 17th-century Tuscan convent. Under the direction of Dr. Geoffrey Pope and Andreas Mitisek, the performance promises to engage both opera enthusiasts and newcomers. Tickets are affordably priced, ensuring accessibility for audiences. This performance highlights the rich cultural landscape of Irvine and Puccini’s timeless storytelling.
Irvine – The UCI Opera and UCI Symphony are set to present a modern staging of Giacomo Puccini’s acclaimed one-act opera, Suor Angelica, on Saturday, May 10, at 8 p.m. This performance will take place at the historic Irvine Barclay Theatre, promising an engaging evening for opera enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Suor Angelica, which translates to “Sister Angelica,” is set in a 17th-century Tuscan convent and explores profound themes of maternal love, loss, tragedy, and redemption. The plot follows Sister Angelica, a noble-born nun who has devoted seven years to life in the convent after conceiving an illegitimate child. The narrative propels forward as she receives heart-wrenching news from her aunt, setting the stage for powerful emotional revelations.
The opera will be performed in Italian with supertitles for accessibility, allowing the audience to fully grasp the emotional weight of the character’s journey. The total runtime for this production is approximately one hour without an intermission, making it an ideal choice for those who may be new to opera or looking for a concise experience.
Under the musical direction of Dr. Geoffrey Pope, with Dr. Yuliya Minina serving as the assistant music director, this rendition of Suor Angelica promises a rich auditory experience. The performance also benefits from the directorial and design expertise of Andreas Mitisek, lending a modern flair to this classic piece.
Tickets for the event are priced at $21 for general admission, with concessions available—$18 for seniors (62 and older), UCI faculty, alumni, staff, emeriti, retirees, and groups of ten or more. An even better value can be found in the $16 ticket price when purchased as part of an Arts Package that includes three or more events. Affordability extends to students and youth age 17 and under, who can purchase tickets for just $10.
This production of Suor Angelica has been made possible through the generous support of the Opera Guild and the Marjorie and Robert Rawlins Endowment Fund, highlighting community investment in the arts and encouraging a broader audience to experience operatic storytelling.
As audiences prepare for this enchanting performance, they are reminded of the historical significance and emotional depth of Puccini’s work. Recognized as one of the leading composers in the operatic genre, Puccini masterfully weaves intricate melodies and poignant narratives that resonate through time, making his operas relevant and relatable.
The UCI Opera and UCI Symphony’s presentation of Suor Angelica not only showcases local talent but also contributes to the vibrant cultural landscape of Irvine, a city that continues to embrace the performing arts. With a focus on quality and accessibility, this event is an opportunity to experience the beauty of opera in a beautiful venue.
In summary, those looking for a culturally enriching experience on May 10 are encouraged to attend the performance of Suor Angelica at the Irvine Barclay Theatre, an event sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
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Additional Resources
- University of California, Irvine (UCI)
- Wikipedia: Suor Angelica
- Opera Guild
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Giacomo Puccini
- Google News: UCI Opera Suor Angelica
