The Charles & Reta Ralph Opera Program presents the Opera Scenes Workshop on Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m. in the Runyan Rehearsal Hall at the University Center for the Arts, located at 1400 Remington St.

The event is FREE and open to the public, but space is limited.

Presented by the Charles & Reta Ralph Opera Center, the Opera Scenes Workshop is an opportunity for students to perform repertoire from pieces not often staged in their entirety. It is a workshop for developing singers to perform music that they may not have had an opportunity to perform otherwise.

Directed by Tiffany Blake, director of opera at CSU, the scenes concert consists of duets, trios, and ensembles from operatic literature ranging from Baroque to modern, and has become an integral part of the opera program at CSU.

“It really allows the students an opportunity to learn about developing a character and how to memorize and perform the music in a staged setting,” notes Blake. “With minimal staging, costuming, and scenery, there is more emphasis on character development—the job of creating the character lies solely with the student.”

The University Center for the Arts at Colorado State University provides an enriched venue in which the study and practice of Art, Dance, Music and Theatre are nurtured and sustained by building the skills and knowledge needed by future generations of arts professionals to become contributors to the essential vitality of our culture and society. During the 2013-2014 season, the UCA celebrates its fifth anniversary and features several celebratory events that highlight connecting our campus and community with impactful arts.