UK Opera Theatre Undergraduates to Spotlight Mozart Masterpieces
LEXINGTON, Ky. — UK Opera Theatre undergraduates to stage Mozart’s Acts
Performance Details & Participants
On April 24, 2024, budding opera talents from University of Kentucky (UK) will take the stage to present two acts from Mozart’s creations — the first act finale of “Cosi fan tutte” and an extended second act finale of “Le nozze di Figaro.” The performance will kickstart at 6 p.m. at the Schmidt Vocal Arts Center, located within UK’s campus. This workshop performance is open to the public, and admission is free.
The workshop director, Christopher Burchett, noted that the presenting undergraduates include Calia Burdette, Will Jones, Svitlana Merlichenko, William Middleton III, Lydia Naberhaus, Anazha Santiago, Tess Sergent, Max Taylor, Andrew Tran, Dejah Watts, and Grace Wong.
Purpose & Vision of the Workshop
The UK opera workshop class aims to be a foundation stone for the university’s vocal students. According to director Burchett, “The workshop program provides an atmosphere of instruction and exploration as these singers learn what it is to be professional performers.”
Burchett’s hope is that students “leave each semester with a greater knowledge and confidence in their craft, ready to take on bigger challenges without the fear of failure.” He further emphasizes the role UK Opera Theatre plays in equipping their students with not only practical skills but an understanding of the demands of the professional world.
Renowned School of Music & Beyond
The UK Opera Theatre is part of the School of Music at the UK College of Fine Arts, a nationally recognized institution excelling in opera, choral and instrumental music performance, music therapy, and music history, among others.
The University of Kentucky maintains its commitment to impacting the Commonwealth through its focus on students, research, creativity, and healthcare. A 2022 Forbes ranking placed it as one of the “Best Employers for New Grads,” while INSIGHT into Diversity named it as a “Diversity Champion” reflecting the university’s dedication to diversity and inclusivity. UK is indeed “the University for Kentucky,” contributing to societal transformation since 1865.
Any media related questions can be directed at Jenny Wells-Hosley at jenny.wells@uky.edu or 859-257-5343. Stay tuned for the latest happenings at the UK Opera Theatre and the UK community in general.