Kent State University Opera presents Johann Strauss II’s comedic operetta “Die Fledermaus” on Fri., March 16 and Sat., March 17 at 7:30 p.m., and Sun., March 18 at 3 p.m. The student cast will be joined by the Kent State University Orchestra in this fully staged production performed in English. Direction by Marla Berg, musical direction by Jay White and conductor Jungho Kim. Lighting and sound design and recording by Jeremy Dobbins. Ludwig Recital Hall is at 1325 Theatre Drive in the Center for the Performing Arts. Ample free parking is available.
Known as the “Waltz King,” Johann Strauss II’s beloved operetta “Die Fledermaus” possess the same spirited and effervescent flavor of his Viennese waltzes. Originally set in Austria near the turn of the 20th century, the plot primarily follows the story of Dr. Falke and his quest for light-hearted vengeance following an embarrassing incident. Now known as “The Bat,” Falke was left in a public market by his friend Eisenstein following a drunken night at a costume party. After extensive planning, he executes his intricately planned revenge at a New Year’s Eve party where the champagne flows freely and antics inevitably ensue. From love triangles to mistaken identities, there are several unexpected twists and turns from the start of the famous overture to the final notes of the Act III reprisal of the tribute to champagne chorus.
Tickets are available in advance through the Performing Arts Box Office in-person, by calling 330-672-2787 (ARTS) or at www.kent.edu/music/buy-tickets. $15, adults; $13, seniors and Kent State University faculty; $10, groups of 10 or more; $8 non-Kent State students and Kent State student’s ineligible for the Fee for Free; FREE for full-time Kent Campus undergraduates and those 18 and under. The Performing Arts Box Office is located in the Roe Green Lobby, Center for the Performing Arts, at 1325 Theatre Dr. on the Kent Campus.