Opera lovers won’t want to miss Shoreline Community College’s Opera Workshop 2018, featuring the world premiere of Command Performance, a delightful one-act piece written specifically for Shoreline’s program by famed Seattle composer Bruce Monroe.
Based on historical events from the reign of Russian Empress Catherine “The Great,” Command Performance is the brainchild of Monroe, a prolific orchestrator and composer known for his work at Village Theater and 5th Avenue Theater. Monroe has also worked extensively with the College’s Musical Theater and Opera programs.
Presenting an entirely new work comes with challenges that offer valuable learning experiences for students. “There’s no precedent to fall back on,” said Enlow. “We’re literally creating a new work from the ground up, and our student cast has risen admirably and enthusiastically to the challenge. A new work also allows for students to be part of an ongoing creative process and to explore different possibilities for performance in a safe place. They’re exploring their capabilities and expanding and refining their skills as musicians, actors, and performers.”
That opportunity for music and theater students to learn and practice creative growth in a professional setting is unique in the region. “Nowhere else in our area does an educational institution offer the learning and performance opportunities that are presented every quarter in our music theater, opera, and drama productions,” said Enlow. “Providing students the opportunity to work with a celebrated theater conductor and composer is such a gift and invaluable to their training.”
Funding for the piece was provided, in part, by a Community Project Grant from Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council, which supports projects that “enhance the quality of life” in the Shoreline community.
“Participating in a professional production provides essential hands-on experience for our students,” said Enlow. “But putting up these productions also benefits the larger Shoreline community by keeping the arts vibrant and evolving in this area. We’re honored the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Arts Council recognized the College’s contribution to the arts in our community with the Community Project Grant.”
Now in its 45th year, the Opera Workshop is a fully staged opera production that premieres during the College’s winter quarter. Each production includes a selection of opera scenes and a one-act opera with an orchestra.
Along with Command Performance, Opera Workshop 2018 also includes the region premiere of The Quartet, by well-known Seattle composer Bern Herbolsheimer. This miniature opera is a charming adaptation of an original Slavic tale, deliciously scored for singers and chamber ensemble. Crowning these performances are scenes from The Golden Apple (music by Jerome Moross and libretto by John Latouche), set in Washington state.
Show dates for Opera Workshop 2018 will be February 23, 24, and 25. Purchase tickets for Opera Workshop 2018.
Learn more about the Musical Theater and Opera programs at Shoreline Community College.