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THE NEVADA OPERA THEATRE
La Boheme
T
he Nevada Opera Theatre now in its 24th year presented Puccini’s “La Boheme.” The Nevada Opera’s 24th season will also include “Cinderella” and “Madame Butterfly.” With hard work and dedication, Nevada Opera Theatre has steadily developed into a successful professional Opera Company with a fine balance of classic opera, operetta and musical theatre productions.
 The 2010 Season began with a ‘Meet The Artists Reception Soirée’ one week before the production of “La Boheme.”
On the day “La Boheme” was performed, a lecture about the opera was presented prior to the performance in the lobby of the Artemus Ham Concert Hall. This is so special for those patrons who might not know the story, as it is presented in a foreign language. “La Boheme” is sung in Italian. A reception in the lobby following the Opera, gave guests a chance to meet the Artists.
As the audience awaited the start of “La Boheme,” proclamations were presented to the Nevada Opera Theatre. One proclamation was presented to the 1st President of the Nevada Opera Theatre, Joan Dimmitt. City Councilman Starvos Anthony presented a major proclamation to Founder and Executive Director, Eileen Hayes. This proclamation by Mayor Oscar Goodman and the City Council made February 14th, the day of “La Boheme,” “Nevada Theatre Day.” Eileen presented a special plaque to Nevada State Bank who sponsored the Orchestra. How wonderful it is to hear a full orchestra play so beautifully.
By the way, I couldn’t believe the change in Eileen Hayes, I almost didn’t recognize her. Her weight loss and blonde hair were very positive to her demeanor and character.
I have seen “La Boheme” many times and love it every time I see it. Although it has a sad ending as do many of the operas, it grips your heart as well as your love of the music. There are also happy times, and for days afterwards, the lilting melody of Musetta’s song played in my mind.
The story is about four poor fun-loving Bohemians, a poet, an artist, a musician and a philosopher living together in a Paris garret. The poet Rodolfo, (played by Gabriel Reoyo-Pazos) falls in love with Mimi, a seamstress (played by the Grammy Award-nominated soprano Demetra George) who is sick with consumption (tuberculosis). The other principal parts were played by Suzanne Vinnik as Musetta, Kelly Anderson as Marcello, Eric Castro as Schaunard and Las Vegas’ own wonderful baritone, Dr. Morton Hyson as Colline.
Demetra George’s performance of the frail, sickly Mimi was extremely convincing due to her magnificent vocal and acting rendition of the character. In contrast to the frail Mimi was the energetic Musetta who was exuberantly and splendidly performed by Suzanne Vinnik. Gabriel Reoyo-Pazos as the Poet lover played his role extremely well as did all the artists and chorus.
The Nevada Opera Theatre Orchestra and Chorus was conducted by the very able and colorful Maestro Frank Fetta, looking very much an Opera Orchestra Conductor with his beautiful long white hair. This was one of the finest productions by the Nevada Opera Theatre.
Nevada Opera does Outreach performances and this season included “Hansel & Gretel” that was performed for at-risk elementary school students, The Shade Tree mothers and children, and for children at The Salvation Army Chapel.
Many scheduled events are planned for the NV Opera.
April: Scholarships for UNLV Music Department Vocal
Majors will be presented by the Nevada Opera Guild.
May 2: The International Friendship Luncheon at 11:30 a.m.
May 13 & 14: “Cinderella”at Judy Bayley Theatre for students in at-risk elementary schools.
June 13 at 3 p.m.: “Madame Butterfly” at Sun City Anthem Freedom Hall in Henderson. A reception following the performance.
June 27: A Diva/Divo Membership Luncheon at Cili’s Restaurant, Bali Hai Golf Course.
August 12–15: Diva & Divo Excursion to Santa Fe Opera.
Each year, The Nevada Opera Theatre Guild host several events that have become a tradition. Some of these successful events are: The Opera Gala; The International Friendship Luncheon; Meet the Artists Luncheon; Patron Receptions; Holiday High Teas and Holiday Celebration Luncheon. Volunteers and Committee members are constantly needed to continue these events. If interested in becoming involved in Fundraising, Special Events, Office, Educational Events, Telephone Committee; Program Ad Sales, and/or Subscription Renewals, call Karen Scherer at 736 7755.
Nevada Opera Theatre is looking forward to celebrating its 25th Anniversary next year with productions of “AIDA” and “MAN of LA MANCHA.” This will certainly be something for Opera Lovers and lovers of all Arts and Culture to look forward to. Can’t wait!
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