Opera production of Shakespeare classic opens at Cyrano's Sept. 2

The first production of a full-length opera at Cyrano's Offcenter Playhouse opens in September for eight performances. Vincenzo Bellini's "I Capuleti e i Montecchi" tells the famous story of the ill-fated lovers Romeo and Juliet, set to the most beautiful and ravishing music imaginable.

Sung in Italian, with dialogue in English from the Shakespearean play, this is opera up-close and personal. The stellar cast features UAA faculty members Mari Hahn as Juliet and William Garry as her father Capelio, and UAA graduating student Jeff Dahlstrom in his first feature role as the friar Lorenzo. Visiting artists Hayden DeWitt and Philip Grant round out the production: DeWitt in the "pants role" of Romeo; and Grant providing competition for Juliet's hand as the dashing Tybalt. Dean Epperson provides musical direction.

Preview: Sept. 1 at 7 p.m.
Opening Gala: Sept. 2 at 7 p.m., with reception and silent auction
Remaining performances: Sept. 3, 8, 9 and 10 at 7 p.m.; Sept. 4 and 11 at 3 p.m. Reservations recommended. Call 274-2599