Reporter

CSU Bakersfield music students are conducting their own opera this Friday at 7 p.m. in the Dorè Theatre. The opera will feature scenes from Chapì “La Revoltosa” (zarzuela), Pasatieri’s “La Divina” (comedy), and Sullivan’s “Trial by Jury” (comic opera).

Director of the opera program Soo-Yeon Chang said that this year’s opera program consists of community members, CSUB music alumni Maritza Osornia and Ruben Carrillo, guest artist Rebekah Barton, and other qualified singers.

“So many people think it is stuffy classical music… but it is witty, dramatic,” said music education major Courtney Sangis, 20.

Sangi is cast as the young conductor in “La Divina” and as a bridesmaid in “Trial by Jury.” Her role as the young conductor was originally written for a tenor, but as a soprano she is still able to sing this particular piece.

For music major Flynt Burton, 20, this is his first experience being in the opera at CSUB. He is cast as a jury member in “Trial by Jury” as a bass.

“It’s fun and interesting to see. Support your fellow classmates with what they are doing, go and appreciate all the work they are putting into the performance,” said Burton.

Friday night’s opera will start with a “curtain raiser” scene from “La Revoltosa” in Spanish, which is based on a trouble maker. “La Divina” is a one-act opera based on an aging diva with guest artist Rebekah Barton playing the part of Madame Adelina Altina.

After the intermission, the second one-act opera will contain Gilbert and Sullivan’s “Trial by Jury,” which is a parody of the judicial system.

This year’s opera is being hosted by the CSUB opera theatre. The encouraged attire at the event should be casual, but fitting for the occasion.

People are encouraged to clap and cheer during the opera, but no unnecessary noise.

Peggy Sears, who is the stage director, said that the opera is a “good place to bring school-age children to nurture their brains.”

The CSUB opera is something that Sears encourages the community to “go, give it a try, if you hate it you can always walk out quietly.”

Chang said no flash photography or recording is allowed during this event. For more information about the opera, contact Chang at: [email protected]