It’s “Carmen” Time at STP!

Escamillo, Brad Jungwirth admires Carmen, Olga Bojovic in Soo Opera's August 6, 8, & 10 production of "Carmen."
Escamillo, Brad Jungwirth admires Carmen, Olga Bojovic in Soo Opera’s August 6, 8, & 10 production of “Carmen.”

With much excitement, The Soo Theatre Project’s 2014 summer season continues with the August 6, 8, and 10 performances of “Carmen.”

This August’s run of “Carmen” is the result of creative genius from STP’s Artistic Director, Karen Hughes Beacom. Karen began The Soo Opera in 2006. The program is multifaceted in that it includes an apprentice training program with a Vocal Gala performance, established opera singers from around the country, local talent from the Sault Ste. Marie communities, and an impressive annual performance accompanied by orchestra on the STP historic stage. Previous operas include “La Bohème,” “Le Nozze di Figaro,” “Cosí fan tutte,” “Gianni Schicchi,” and “The Magic Flute.”

The shows, August 6, 8, and 10, are a collaboration of many people with a range of operatic experience. Sault native, Eric Shaw, returns ‘home’ from Toronto to direct “Carmen.” Sault Symphony conductor, John Wilkinson, conducts. Guest artists include Olga Bojovic (Carmen), Brad Jungwirth (Escamillo), Travis Richter (Remendado), Markel Reed (Morales/Dancaïre) and Chelsea Helm (Frasquita).

Beacom explains, “The artist-in-residence program is great on so many levels. Not only do singers from around the country have an opportunity to perform a role for their own careers, but they help us to create a nurturing environment for our local artists to experience first rate training and to work alongside real working singer/actors.”

Truly, this is an operatic passion commitment on behalf of these established vocalists. Beacom continues, “These singing professionals will spend two to three weeks in residency with the Soo Theatre Project, performing in leading roles, mentoring our own young singers and for some, teaching and coaching and even directing aspects of the show.” Beacom herself will sing the role of Micaëla.

It’s a win-win situation for all!

And, just who are these local talented people benefitting from The Soo Opera program this year? Melanie Case (Mercedes), Adam Graber (Zuniga), Matt Zook (Lillas Pastia), Ben Deatrick , Trevor Headley, Isaac James, Barry Levine, and Matt Zook (soldiers) and Lola Kennedy, Gabbie Pepin and Hollyann Beck (featured dancers).

Whew! But, there are even more people offering their time, talent, and passion for performing while gaining experience from established artists!

Pat Deatrick, Alicia Kasper, Ashley Kasper, Ashley Baker, Nancy Kirkpatrick, Bobbie Levine, Lindsey McCullough, Sally Schremp, Iyla Beaulieu, and Alyssa Morley are all members of the opera chorus.

Show times are Wednesday, August 6 at 7:30 pm, Friday, August 8 at 7:30 pm, and Sunday, August 10 at 2 pm.

Advanced tickets are available now ($18), advanced group rate (ten or more) tickets are available now ($17), student tickets are available now ($10), and general admission tickets will be available at the door ($20).

Come and be wowed by STP’s “Carmen” show this summer, and at the same time support local artists, local arts teachers, and local non-profit organizations such as The Soo Theatre Project because it’s “Carmen” time at STP!

There’s always something for everyone at The Soo Theatre Project all year long. Visit: 534 Ashmun Street. Call: (906) 635-1930. Look: www.sootheatre.org.