The entire cast, splendid in formal costume, crowd the stage as Horace, played by baritone Steve Taylor, and Baby Doe hold center stage. I am a child of the moon. The voice of reason Rounding out the cast of principal singers is renowned Colorado mezzo-soprano Marcia Ragonetti as Augusta, Horace's first wife of 27 years, who claims the bulk of his fortune when they divorce in order that he might marry Baby Doe. The ghostly climactic scene of the play shows Augusta and other figures from Horace's past, haunting him before his death, penniless and destitute. Ragonetti's powerful delivery virtually buffets ragged Horace about the stage, forcing him to see the folly of his ways.
Love alone is fixed in time.
The desert blooms Funded by ticket sales, individual donations and a small grant, Opera Theatre of the Rockies production of The Ballad of Baby Doe is opulent, professionally done and rich in every aspect. Rowland has personally trained many of the singers in her years coaching in Colorado Springs, and many have received training at schools and conservatories across the country. That she has so deeply mined the singing talent of the region and brought it together to form, in such a short time, such a strong company, is nothing short of miraculous. Collins points out the musical community's dedication to Rowland and her well-earned loyalty in Colorado Springs and across the state. The chorus might rise up in song, echoing those words for their artistic director, Martile Rowland.