The local music scene is made richer by music in all its forms. Mansfield is unique among cities its size, for instance, to have its own opera production company.
Mid-Ohio Opera, now in its fifth season under Artistic Director Joel Vega, offers the opportunity throughout the year to experience the magic of opera. This Saturday, August 24, such an occasion comes in the form of a concert-style performance of arias from “Carmen” of Georges Bizet, performed on the beautiful large south lawn at Kingwood Center Gardens.
Written and performed in French, Carmen was first performed in 1875, and tells the following story, according to Wikipedia:
“It is set in southern Spain and tells the story of the downfall of Don José, a naïve soldier who is seduced by the wiles of the fiery gypsy Carmen. José abandons his childhood sweetheart and deserts from his military duties, yet loses Carmen’s love to the glamorous toreador Escamillo, after which José kills her in a jealous rage.”
It has since become a classic of the operatic repertoire. The presentation will be a condensed version of the original with the incredible music of Bizet retained.
So – bring your favorite beverage and a picnic – and your lawn chair or blanket. Admission is free; the performance begins at 7 PM.
After Mansfield, the production of Carmen continues with performances in Columbus, Cleveland, and Wooster later this month.
The performers for Carmen were rehearsing on Monday at Grace Episcopal Church:
Photo: Creative Commons License
