UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Opera Theatre will present “Dialogues of the Carmelites,” by Francis Poulenc, at 7:30 p.m. March 17 and 18 in the School of Music Recital Hall at University Park. A preview performance will be offered on March 16, also in the Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m.
The opera, which premiered at Teatro alla Scala in 1957, is based on a play by French playwright Georges Bernanos. It tells the story of a young noblewoman who becomes a nun, against the wishes of her father and brother, at the height of the terror following the French Revolution. Her decision sets events in motion that lead to an outcome that is both tragic and triumphant.
This production, which is directed by Scott Skiba and conducted by Blair Salter, includes both graduate and undergraduate students from the School of Music, and features guest artist and faculty member Jennifer Trost in the role of Madame de Croissy, the old prioress of the monastery. The performances feature a multimedia design by guest artists Steve Shack and Brittany Merenda.
Tickets are $12.50 for adults and $4.50 for students and can be purchased online through Ticketmaster.
Pre-performance lectures will be offered at 6:30 p.m. on March 17 and 18 in Music Building 1, Room 110.