KNOXVILLE—The University of Tennessee Opera Theatre this month will present a modern-day adaptation of Mozart’s classic comedy, The Marriage of Figaro, where Elvis is star and pop culture takes center stage.
The spring opera will debut Friday through Sunday, April 20 to 22, at the Carousel Theatre, 1714 Andy Holt Avenue.
It is under the direction of James Marvel, Opera Theatre director, and conducted by Kevin Class, Opera Theatre music director.
Figaro will be an interactive play where audience members may become part of the show and may be invited to dance on stage. Friday and Saturday nights will include pre-show performances by the Rockabilly-Ska band Demon Waffle.
“If you thought you couldn’t enjoy opera, this evening will change your mind forever,” Marvel said. “People who should attend this production include those who love Mozart, opera, Figaro, Elvis, swing dancing, rock and roll, pop culture, classical music, living, laughing, loving, and comedy.”
Marvel decided to interpret Figaro as Mozart’s opera about Elvis because, he said, “both personas are immensely likable and musical.
“Both are good dancers and play the guitar,” he said. “Both have amazing hair. Ultimately, Figaro is the barber, and barbers are all about the hair.”
Marvel’s adaptation of Figaro will also feature representations of former First Lady Jackie Onassis and Liberace, a flamboyant American pianist and vocalist.
Show times are 8:00 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, with a 2:30 p.m. matinee on Sunday.
Tickets are $5 for UT Students, $10 faculty, staff, seniors, and non-UT students, and $15 for the general public. They are available for purchase at the Clarence Brown Theatre box office, online at www.knoxvilletickets.com, or by phone at 865-974-5161.Tickets are also available at the theater on the evening of the performance.
For more information, visit www.music.utk.edu/figaro.
—
CONTACT:
Lola Alapo (865-974-3993, lola.alapo@tennessee.edu)