Axe ’Em, Jacks!
NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - An enjoyable evening of light comedy, beautiful music and powerful voices is in store for anyone attending Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music's upcoming production of "Die Fledermaus," according to Dr. Deborah Dalton, SFA associate professor of music and the operetta's stage director.
SFA vocal and orchestral students will present Johann Strauss II's operetta at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 31, through Saturday, April 2, in W.M. Turner Auditorium on the SFA campus.
"Since its Vienna premier in 1874, 'Die Fledermaus' has remained a popular offering in opera houses throughout the world because of its comedic romp of a plot and a score filled with beautiful, memorable melodies written by the 'Waltz King,'" Dalton said.
The story revolves around a practical joke instigated by Dr. Falke, who is sometimes referred to as "die Fledermaus" (the bat). Once Falke manages to get his friends to a ball-each of them in disguise-he (and the audience) are entertained by the twists and turns of the plot created by the mistaken identities.
To make the operetta more accessible, SFA's production will be sung in English. Additionally, supertitles will be projected above the stage for the audience members who would like to read the lyrics while they are being sung.
"Die Fledermaus" is a joint production of the SFA College of Fine Arts, School of Music and University Series.
Prior to Thursday's opening night performance, Dalton will give a brief, informative talk at 7 p.m. in Griffith Gallery, which is located across the hall from Turner Auditorium.
Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and $6 for students. For tickets or more information, please go to www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.