Opera Basics: Start with 'Carmen'

I admit it: I’ve never seen an opera in my life. Not even five minutes of one. But as Larry Frazier, the director of the University of West Georgia's Opera Workshop, talked about the upcoming production of “Carmen” I realized that I was familiar with some of the tunes.

Georges Bizet’s 19th century work is one of the most popular operas in the world, Frazier said. It’s easy to see why – a young, beautiful woman loves when she wants and whom she wants. Her fate is death, but she’s defiant until the end.

This year’s production will offer lots of special treats for audiences. Among them is the work of artist Steve Penley.

Penley created four paintings for the opera. The pieces will be scanned and printed onto billboard material to form the backdrops for each act.

If you have never seen an opera, this is a good place to start. 

Why?

The singing will be in English.

The price is right: $10 adults, $7 senior citizens, $5 non-UWG students, $3 children 12 and under, free for UWG students with ID.

It's a student production. What better way to support our young people?

The opera will be presented at the Townsend Center for the Performing Arts on Thursday, March 8, at 8:15 p.m. and on Saturday, March 10, at 7:30 p.m.

Call 678-839-6516 if you need more info.