Opera at The Acorn presents 'must-see' production of 'I Pagliacci'

Posted: Aug. 11, 2012 at 6:40 p.m.

THREE OAKS - On Aug. 15, 17 and 18, Robert Swan and Harbor Arts present one of the most beautiful and most dramatic operas ever written: Leoncavallo's "I Pagliacci."

Swan says, "Last year we had to turn away so many people from Rigoletto it seemed a shame, so this year we're offering three performances: an 'open dress rehearsal' Wednesday night, the 15th, open to 100 audience members at the reduced rate of $20; and of course Friday and Saturday the 17th and 18th at the price of $35."

Known as the opera about the "killer clown," "I Pagliacci" is also famous for being chock full of gorgeous arias.

This year's signature production will feature John Payonk in the title role as Canio. John, who amazed audiences last year as Rigoletto, returns by popular demand in his signature role. Soprano Sarah Hibbard as Nedda, Baritone Lorenzo Formosa as Silvio, John Concepcion as Beppe, and Baritenor Warren Moulton as Tonio, round out the Stellar cast.

They will be accompanied by conductor Phillip Bauman and the La Porte County Symphony Orchestra, and the Opera at the Acorn Chorus. Costumes by Broadway Costumes of Chicago, sets by noted Chicago set designer Rick Paul, and directed by Opera at the Acorn favorite Carl Ratner.

This is the must-see production of the year, and Swan recommends hopefuls get their tickets reserved early.

The Acorn Theater is located at 107 Generations Dr., Three Oaks, MI 49128. A full-service bar and other refreshments are available.

For tickets and information, call 269-756-3879 or log on to www.acorntheater.com.

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