When most people hear the word "opera," they think of a convoluted plot set to a complex musical score ? and it frightens them.
If that?
s the case, those wanting to get a taste of opera may want to venture out to the James Madison University Opera Theatre?s production of "The Magic Flute" at 8 p.m.
on Friday and Saturday and at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday in the Wilson Hall Auditorium.
While there are no divas to be found, the student production, which is part of the university?s Masterpiece Season Music Series, will feature performances by the JMU Male Chorus, the Concert Chorale, choreography by the Dance Department and music by the JMU Orchestra. Musical numbers are sung in German, but the dialogue is in English, making this the ideal opera for both children and adults to gain an appreciation of the art form, said director Don Ryerson.
"The Magic Flute," said Ryerson, was written by Mozart in 1789 as a lighthearted fairytale full of action and humor. Drawing elements from Germanic mythology, the opera features a handsome hero, Tamino, and his hilarious friend, the bird-man Papageno, who are charged with rescuing Pamina, a young woman whose mother is the evil Queen of the Night. Along the way, the pair meet many fanciful creatures, including a dragon and a magical flute, and must undergo a series of ordeals to get the girl.
Almost a fanciful character in itself, the music Mozart composed for the opera is lively and full of singable ditties that will be remembered long after the show ends, Ryerson said.
Filled with themes of folklore, fantasy and Enlightenment philosophy, "The Magic Flute" is perfect for audiences of any age, Ryerson said.
JMU Opera Theatre will present "The Magic Flute" at 8 p.
m. on Friday and Saturday and at 4:30 p.m.
on Sunday in Wilson Hall. Tickets are $8 for adults and $6 for students. For more information, call 568-6197 or visit .
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