SRU Music Department to present ‘Dido and Aeneas’ April 30

Students from Slippery Rock University’s Music Department will perform “Dido and Aeneas,” a Baroque opera, at 4 p.m., April 30 at Swope Music Hall.

April 27, 2017

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Slippery Rock University's Music Department will present "Dido and Aeneas," a Baroque opera by English composer Henry Purcell, at 4 p.m., April 30 at the Swope Music Hall.

The story is based on Book IV of Virgil's "Aeneid" and tells of the love of Dido, Queen of Carthage, for the Trojan hero Aeneas, and her despair when he abandons her. A monumental work in Baroque opera, "Dido and Aeneas" is referred to as one of Purcell's foremost theatrical works. It was also Purcell's only true opera, as well as his only all-sung dramatic work.

An element which will bring a unique quality to the SRU production is the incorporation of dance.

"Opera often includes dance performances and with our small cast we're able to add that, which makes it a beautiful performance," said Colleen Gray, professor of music and the show's director.

Starring in the production are Mara Flannery, a senior music therapy major from Butler, in the role of Dido, and Logan Smith, a sophomore vocal performance major from Pittsburgh, as Aeneas.

"It's a wonderful, growing process and an educational experience to have our students develop roles on stage and have the opportunity to sing in an opera," Gray added.

Other cast members include: Samantha Christou, a senior health care administration and management major from Allison Park; Emma Martin, a senior music therapy major from South Lebanon, Ohio; Hannah Floyd, a sophomore music therapy/vocal performance major from Sheffield Village, Ohio; Katherine Steele, a senior music education major from Cranberry Township; and Maria Veltre, a freshman music therapy major from Pittsburgh.

The dance component is choreographed by Molly Huey, a sophomore dance major from Warren, and Olivia Nellis, a sophomore dance major from Glenshaw.

Musical accompaniment will be provided in true Baroque style by the SRU Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Warren Davidson, assistant professor of music.

There is no charge for admission, but a donation of $10 for adults and $5 for students is suggested. Advance tickets are available at: https://secure.touchnet.com/C21383_ustores/web/store_main.jsp?STOREID=6.

MEDIA CONTACT: Justin Zackal | 724.738.4854 | justin.zackal@sru.edu