WIU Opera Theatre: The Last Sorcerer

MACOMB, IL – Western Illinois University's School of Music Opera Theatre (WIUOT) will present the United States premiere of the opera, "The Magic Sorcerer," at 7:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday, May 6-7 in Hainline Theatre.

Originally titled "Le Dernier Sorcier," the WIUOT will present a new English adaptation of the French opera, by Pauline Viardot, and created especially for the WIUOT, by Kathleen Kelly.

A chamber opera in two acts composed for piano, solo voices and chorus, "The Magic Sorcerer" (1867) tells the story of Krakamiche, a once powerful sorcerer whose presence in the great forest has annoyed the fairies and spirits, the forest's rightful inhabitants, and disturbed the harmony of the land. Through the combined efforts of the spirits, fairies and their queen, the sorcerer's daughter and her prince, and his resigned servant, Krakamiche ultimately rediscovers his humanity and learns key truths about humility, love, peaceful coexistence with the natural world.

"WIU Opera Theatre students are thrilled to share their hard work with the audience," said WIU Professor and WIUOT Director Brenda Iglesias Zarco. "Learning and performing an opera takes a lot of effort and time, and is a growing opportunity for all of the singers involved. This opera has been a special challenge since there is no recording of the English version we are going to premiere. I am proud of the students' progress and commitment to this production and grateful for the opportunity to work with them on this masterpiece, along with Dr. Joanne Chang, our pianist and co-music director, and Sean Foster, our chorus master."

Tickets are $10 for the public and WIU students and School of Music faculty will be admitted free with a valid identification. To purchase tickets, visit the Hainline Theater Box Office or call (309) 298-2900.

More information about this event and about WIU Opera Theatre is available at facebook.com/WIUOpera/.