NewsRelease

(Posted 1-21-04)
Contact: Tiffany Aumann, 336-334-5371

UNCG Opera Bends Time with Mozart Reloaded
 
GREENSBORO — The Opera Theatre at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro will trade wigs and face powder for sunglasses and fleece when it presents a whimsical modern version of Mozart’s 18th century opera “Così fan tutte,” Feb. 5-8.

The opera, whose title is translated as “The School of Lovers,” was written and composed at the suggestion of the Emperor Joseph II. It was first produced in Vienna in 1790. The UNCG production of the opera will be performed in English and make visual references to the science fiction film, “The Matrix.”

The story line follows the antics of two young men, Ferrando and Guglielmo, who believe their girlfriends love them with unwavering loyalty. When Don Alfonso challenges them to a bet, wagering that the women will buckle when faced with temptation, the lovers decide to test the ladies’ resolve. They claim to be called away to war but return in disguise to woo each other’s girlfriend.

“The whole thing about ‘Così fan tutte’ is ‘what is real?’ Will the girlfriends recognize their disguised boyfriends? If so, will they play along with it?” David Holley, director of opera studies, asked. “But beyond that, the opera addresses issues of fidelity. Will the girlfriends stray if tempted?”

Holley said the remake will remain true to the intent of the opera, but will have a different look. Drawing on contemporary film and fashion, the set has been updated to a shopping mall, where the ladies’ servant, Despina, works in an Old Navy store. Additionally, the costumes of the disguised boyfriends have been altered from Mozart’s depiction as Middle Eastern to futuristic. Affectionately re-titled “Così fan tutte: Mozart Reloaded,” the UNCG production will feature the boyfriends returning in the dark coat and sunglasses of Neo, the hero of “The Matrix” films.

The visual changes to the opera should appeal to the 6,000 Guilford County fifth-graders that the opera theater will entertain March 2-4. Each year, in collaboration with the Greensboro Opera Company, UNCG brings its early spring opera production to local school children at the Carolina Theater.

The part of Dorabella will be alternately sung by Nicole Asel and Stephanie Foley. Her sister Fiordiligi will be played by Jennifer Gaspar and Ariya Sawadivong. The servant Despina will be performed by Jaime Gamroth, and Lauren Keefe. Singing the roles of the scheming boyfriends will be Daniel Stein (Ferrando) and Aaron Phillips (Guglielmo). The role of Don Alfonso will be shared by Jeffrey Carlson and Sidney Outlaw. The cast will be joined by an ensemble of seven singing girlfriends.

The opera will have performances Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 5-7, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 8, at 2 p.m.  Tickets cost $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $6 for all students. For more information, call (336) 334- 4849 or visit the university box office, with locations in Elliott University Center and the School of Music, weekdays from noon to 5 p.m.

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