Department of Music and Performing Arts, 308.865.8118
Students at the University of Nebraska at Kearney will perform the classical opera “Dido and Aeneas,” in the Fine Arts Recital Hall Friday, April 13, and Saturday, April 14.
The performances, which are a part of the opera workshop course at UNK, take place at 7:30 and 3 p.m., respectively.
The baroque-era opera is based on Virgil’s epic work “The Aeneid” and was composed by Henry Purcell. It is based on a libretto by Nahum Tate and was first performed in 1689.
Paul Smith, assistant professor of music and performing arts, said that, although many audience members may not understand some of the connections between classical mythology and literature, most will be able to pick up on a common theme.
“In the time of its composition, Greek mythology and literature were staples of classical education,” Smith said. “Their references would have been expected within a drama of this period, as most dramas were based on either religious or mythological themes. For today’s audiences, the clever references have become more veiled.”
“What remains of Virgil’s plot is the common theme of star-crossed lovers,” he said.
Smith said the performance will give audiences a glimpse into baroque-era opera.
“In staging this masterpiece, the intent was to incorporate aspects of the baroque esthetic,” he said. “The doctrine of the affections, a baroque concept, prescribed that each emotion or affect be portrayed clearly and separately from one another.”
Because operas during the time of “Dido and Aeneas” placed emphasis on the text, as opposed to decorations, the performance at UNK will be staged with minimal sets, Smith said.
The performances are free and open to the public.
Performer List:
Albion – Adam Zrust
Dalton – Blake Thompson
Elkhorn – Tyler Kaufman
Grand Island – Rutheah Williams and Patrick York
Kearney – Ashley Hellerich and Nicole Freburg-Hoffmeister
Madison – Kristie Bonner
Omaha – Jordan Litherland
Ord – Chelsa Petska
Wayne – Jessica Hansen
Baton Rouge, La. – Anthony Ward
Japan – Mai Shibahara, Somin Kim and Yuko Wada
