Story By Lauren Scott, UCA Publicity Intern
“Happy are those who forget that which cannot be changed.” Wrapped within a flurry of colorful characters, interjected musical numbers, and the setting of a masked ball, this line from Die Fledermaus, by Johann Strauss II, encapsulates the theme of the piece, one that suggests that we can choose singing, drinking, and dancing to escape life’s problems.
It is New Year’s Eve in 1899 Vienna, and a man stands outside an apartment serenading the love of his life. She, however, is married to another man who flirts often with other women. An elegant masked ball is being hosted this very night, setting the perfect scene for people to spy, uncover truths, reconnect with old flames, and maybe even get thrown in jail. We do not want to give too much away, as this is certainly an opera you will want to see unfold before your own eyes.
Now, we know what many of you may be thinking…that opera is not really your thing. It is true, opera is not always seen as the most accessible art form for wide arrays of audiences, but this piece may just change your mind. “This is a very popular, timeless piece with melodies the audience will whistle as they leave the theatre,” says Dr. Tiffany Blake, director of CSU’s Ralph Opera Program and this performance. Die Fledermaus is what’s known as an operetta, meaning musical numbers are interspersed throughout spoken dialogue. In this way, modern day musical theatre mimics the layout and feel of an operetta, allowing audiences to connect with it more easily. With singing, dancing, magical costuming by Maile Speetjens, and a beautiful set seemingly pulled straight from 19th Century Vienna by Zhanna Gurvich, audiences will have no problem finding a connection.
Do not miss out on your chance to be part of this breathtaking, timeless operetta experience presented by the Ralph Opera Program!
Ticket Information
Continuing this fall, tickets are *no charge for CSU students, $1 for youth (under 18), and $19.50 for the public. Tickets are available at the University Center for the Arts (UCA) ticket office in the UCA lobby Monday through Friday, 3:30-5:30 p.m. and 60 minutes prior to performances, by phone at (970) 491-ARTS (2787), or online at www.CSUArtsTickets.com. Youth tickets must be purchased in person at the Ticket Office. All tickets are subject to a $1 ticket fee for both online and at-the-door purchases. Advance ticket purchase is highly recommended to avoid lines and further at-the-door fees.