Children’s opera performed by alumnae, students
L-R Jena Cantrell, Chelsea Smith, Kathryn Cole, Kelly Osborne
November 30, 2009
Contact: Paul K. Logsdon, Director of Public Relations and Publications (417) 865-2815, ext. 7292
Springfield, Mo — A current Evangel University student and two Evangel alumnae recently performed as young artists with Opera Theatre of the Ozarks in the children’s opera “Billy Goats Gruff,” at the Library Center in Springfield.
Jane Munson-Berg, Evangel instructor of voice and opera, formed the new opera company to bring opera to people of all ages in the Southwest Missouri region. OTO is a member of the Springfield Regional Arts Council.
The 40-minute production is based on the popular children’s story and includes music from Mozart, Rossini and Donizetti.
While suited for young children, the opera operates on the fundamental character development premise, Kindness is Contagious. In addition, the concepts of intolerance of bullies, friendship, and acceptance of others are consistently weaved into the piece.
The role of Lucy was played by Chelsea Smith, Wynne, Ark., senior music education major at Evangel.
The role of Osmina the troll was performed by Kathryn Cole, Munford, Tenn., a 2008 Evangel graduate with a B.M. in music education.
The part of was Ernesto was performed by Jena Cantrell, Marshfield, Mo., a 2009 Evangel graduate with a B.M. in music performance.
MSU student Kelly Osborne, from Bethany, Mo., played Dandini.
“I enjoy taking a largely misunderstood art and making it an easily attainable reality for children who wouldn’t regularly have the opportunity to experience it,” said Chelsea Smith. “The Opera Theater of the Ozarks provides the education tour program the opportunity to bring the art of opera to children,” she said.
In December 2009 and January 2010, OTO will be taking the beloved story of “Pinocchio” to schools.
For more information, contact Jane Berg at 417-865-2815, ext. 7986.