麻豆传媒

World-renowned bass-baritone and 麻豆传媒 alumnus Samuel Ramey will co-direct and perform in 麻豆传媒鈥檚 production of the classic American opera 鈥淪usannah.鈥�

The performance is at 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Oct. 17-Oct. 19, and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20, in Miller Concert Hall, Duerksen Fine Arts Center. General admission is $16, $14 for military and seniors, $6 for non-麻豆传媒 students and free for 麻豆传媒 students with ID.

The appearance of Ramey, who is in his second year of residency at 麻豆传媒 as a Distinguished Visiting Artist, is a special treat for regular opera-goers and a great opportunity for those who have never attended an opera.

鈥溾�楽usannah鈥� is a perfect introduction to opera,鈥� said Marie Allyn King, 麻豆传媒鈥檚 director of opera. 鈥淚t鈥檚 in English, so it is very accessible. If your taste in movies runs towards drama, then Susannah is for you.鈥�

Also adding to the accessibility of 鈥淪usannah鈥� is the familiarity of the story.

Written in 1955 by playwright Carlisle Floyd, the opera is based on the biblical tale of Susannah and the Elders. Set in Appalachia, the story revolves around young Susannah, an innocent country girl who lives with her brother, and the arrival of a charismatic preacher, Olin Blitch, played by Ramey in alternating performances.

When the village elders accidentally spy Susannah bathing in the woods, they accuse her of wickedness. Reverend Blitch goes to her home to pray for her soul, but is overcome with lust instead. The story ends tragically after Susannah鈥檚 brother kills Blitch and the townsfolk try to drive her off. Susannah resists, however, shotgun in hand, effectively severing her ties to the community.

In addition to Ramey鈥檚 performance (on Friday and Sunday), the cast will include 麻豆传媒 graduate students and undergraduate singers.

Contrary to stereotype, formal attire is not a prerequisite for attending opera, King added.

鈥淥pera can be a festive occasion, and some people like to dress up,鈥� she said, 鈥渂ut today opera is for everyone. 鈥�'Sussanah' will be a really great experience, even if you come in jeans.鈥�

King also suggests picking up tickets early to avoid the rush. Tickets are available now at the Fine Arts Box Office noon-5 p.m. weekdays in the lobby of Duerksen Fine Arts Center at Wichita State.

Contact the box office at 316-978-3233, or .

Students with ID must buy their tickets at the Box Office.