LERON WELLINGTON
Staff Writer
There is nothing better than a revamped classic. A story that is beloved for many reasons, Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women” comes to Fredonia in a contemporary opera adaptation.
The novel, which was originally published in 1868, has been transformed into a two-act opera by American composer Mark Adamo. The story of four sisters journeying into womanhood in post-Civil War New England is told by an ensemble of vocalists and the Western New York Chamber Orchestra (WNYCO).
WNYCO continues its tradition to perform annual operas from the 20th and 21st century with this story of family, love and strength.
The opera, which was originally produced in 1998, has been performed around the world and has been called “a poly-stylistic quilt of atonal melodies [and] sweeping Romantic arias” by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
The cast is led by guest artist Rebecca Schuessler in the role of Jo March. The ensemble cast is comprised of a mix of undergraduate and graduate students with wide ranges of music and expertise. With only three weeks of official rehearsals, the cast and orchestra are rehearsing to bring this masterpiece to life.
Lucia Helgren, a senior vocal performance and arts administrator major, plays the role of Amy. She said, “I love the story of ‘Little Women,’ as so many do. It has been adapted for the screen, as well as made into a musical, so it is only natural for it to be an opera as well.”
Students are anticipating the concert production. Nia Drummond, a senior vocal performance major said, “I am excited to see this opera because it is a new work, and that is always something fun to watch.”
So if you are in the mood for a classical tale with a musical twist, check out the WNYCO concert. The performance will be held on Feb. 4 at 4 p.m. in King Concert Hall. Tickets are free for students and $20 for non-students. They can be purchased at the ticket office and at the door.