Opera in Vermont

Now in it's third magnificent year, the Green Mountain Opera Festival is just days away from it's June 1st curtain rising. And this year the festival features dozens of Vermont musicians, both in the orchestra and the chorus of this year's chosen complete production of La Traviata. If you have never experienced an opera, this is your chance! The lead roles are played by internationally renowned opera singers, the supporting roles by Emerging Artists in the festival's program funded by Sheila Johnson (founder of BET), and the chorus by Vermonters. And, the two productions of La Traviata are performed at the beautifully restored Barre Opera House to a full orchestra with dramatic staging and gorgeous costumes.

Bah pain-in-the-bum if you say you don't like opera but have never seen one. Hearing a song sung in vibrato is NOT like seeing a live opera just like hearing a song on a studio album by Phish is NOT like having gone to a live show.

If you still can't be convinced, have no fear, this is a festival with a whole bunch of events leading up to the final shows. Several are free including open rehearsals and master classes with opera stars. For a complete listing, visit www.greenmountainoperafestival.com. A few of the highlights include:

Opening Opera Concert, Joslyn Round Barn
Stars of the Green Mountain Opera Festival’s 2008 production of La Traviata perform opera classics and favorites.
Friday, June 6th, 7:30 pm ($20 per person)

Broadway Picnic, Lareau Farm Inn
Singers from the 2008 Green Mountain Opera Festival will perform Broadway favorites at this casual festival favorite, open air event.
Wednesday, June 11th, Picnicking – 6:00 pm, Concert – 7:00 pm ($10 per person)

Emerging Artist Showcase, Joslyn Round Barn
Talented budding opera stars of tomorrow, chosen by audition to be included in the Green Mountain Opera Festival’s Emerging Artist Program perform their showcase concert.
Friday, June 13th, 7:30 pm ($20 per person)

Opera Chat & Lunch with Tim Tavcar, Joslyn Round Barn
Thursday, June 19th, 12:00 noon ($25, reservations required)

And, of course...

Opening Night Performance of La Traviata, Barre Opera House
World renowned performers, emerging artists, and Vermont musicians come together for this fully staged and costumed production accompanied by the Green Mountain Opera Festival Orchestra.
Friday, June 20th, 7:30 pm ($27-$45 per person)
Matinee Performance of La Traviata, Barre Opera House
Sunday, June 22nd, 3:00 pm ($27-$45 per person)

Painting by Bill Brauer