Otterbein's Opera Theatre Meets Television
On November 9-11, Otterbein University’s Opera Theatre will meet television as it presents two one-act operas: Gallantry by Douglas Moore and The Life and Love of Joe Coogan by Paul Salerni, libretto by Kate Light.
“I really enjoy our productions this semester because they are very approachable to a wide variety of audience members – there is something in each show for everyone,” said senior, vocal performance major Tyler Driggs, who plays Donald in Gallantry.
The Life and Love of Joe Coogan is based on an episode of the Dick Van Dyke Show written by Carl Reiner. It center’s around Rob’s jealousy over one of Laura’s old boyfriends and the comedy that ensues when things don’t turn out exactly as planned. Directed by Robert Behrens with musical direction by Dennis Davenport, the opera features Andrew Szczerba as Rob Petrie, Martine Tyus as his wife Laura, and Eric Heinsen as Joe Coogan.
Gallantry by Douglas Moore is based on an episode of a stereotypical 1950’s hospital soap opera complete with commercial breaks. The drama unfolds as Dr. Gregg (Josh Dixon) relentlessly pursues Lola (Dara Pardon), a lovely young nurse. Tension arises as Dr. Gregg prepares to perform surgery on Lola’s fiancé, Donald (Driggs). The production is directed by Karen Eckenroth with musical direction by Ly Apelado. Both operas are conducted by Brandon Moss ’04.
“Performing, in all aspects, is a great experience because you learn so much about the character(s) you are portraying, but more importantly, you find out who you are as an individual,” Driggs said. “I’ve learned a lot about who I am through the music I have sung and the characters I have played on stage here at Otterbein.”
The performances will take place in Riley Auditorium in the Battelle Fine Arts Center on the Otterbein campus on Friday and Saturday, November 9 and 10 at 8 p.m., and Sunday, November 11 at 2 p.m. General admission tickets are available by calling 614-823-1508 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday; tickets will also be available at the door. Prices are $10 for General Admission, $8 for faculty, staff and senior citizens, and $5 for students.