A Mardi Gras ball is the exciting focus of SMSU Opera Workshop's October production of Die Fledermaus. Directed by Dr. Pearl Yeadon, with set design by Byre Blackwood, the production includes a small orchestra conducted by Ralph Sheffield, dances choreographed by Margeaux Heaton, and costumes designed by Becca Craft. Opera Workshop performances are supported by the Collectors Series Patrons and Sponsors and by the Music Department at Southwest Missouri State University.
Admission is free.
This presentation changes the usual setting of a masquerade party in Vienna to New Orleans during Mardi Gras. Our heroine, Rosalinda, has come disguised to a Mardi Gras Ball held at the home of Prince Orlovsky, a young Russian nobleman. Rosalinda's husband is supposed to be in jail for traffic violations, but his buddy, Frank, the Warden of the jail, has arranged that the two of them go to the party, without telling Rosalinda. Rosalinda's maid Adele has also come disguised to the ball. Add to this confusion Roselinda's old boyfriend, Alfred, who has been thrown in jail instead of Einstein.