The Capitol Opera Richmond will perform a sprightly one-hour adaptation of Mozart’s delightful opera “The Magic Flute” at 4 p.m. February 11 at Good Luck Cellars, 1025 Goodluck Road, Kilmarnock.
The family-friendly presentation of Mozart’s operatic fairy tale, narrated in English and sung in German, will benefit the Northern Neck Orchestra (NNO).
Tickets are $25 and may be purchased at www.northernneckorchestra.org or at the door. Students are admitted free with online reservations.
The Capitol Opera Richmond production utilizes a narrative introduction of the principal characters. They sing their respective arias, duets or trios as the magical story unfolds, said NNO vice president Eric Jacobson, who coordinates the benefit concerts.
The cast of five singers and a narrator will be accompanied by a piano and string quartet.
“Mozart’s enchanting music and the beautiful voices of the Capitol Opera Richmond will make this performance a special one,” said Jacobson.
“The Magic Flute” is Mozart’s final opera, premiering in 1791, shortly before the composer’s death.
“The opera is sort of a late 18th century Star Wars taking place in a mythical land between the sun and the moon,” said Jacobson. “A battle between good and evil takes place, involving a kidnapped princess, a smitten prince and his hapless sidekick and ends with the ultimate triumph of virtue over the forces of darkness.”
Members of the cast include Steven Witmer, narrator; Michelle Orr, Queen; Karine Marshal, Pamina; Michael Grey, Tamino; Sharon Munz, Papagena; and Chase Peak, Papageno. Musicians include David Robbins, piano; Kristin Presley, violin; Marissa Resmini, violin; Brenda Johnson, viola; and Michael Knowles, cello.
The NNO benefit concert will feature Mozart quartets for flute and strings at 7 p.m. February 22 at Good Luck Cellars.
