DON Giovanni opera production a success!

February 2004

The Biola Opera Theatre’s production of Don Giovanni, Mozart’s amorous tale and what many consider his crowning operatic achievement, was an unmitigated artistic and popular success attracting over 1,000 opera lovers to performances.  Dr. Jeanne Robison, producer, gave artistic direction and vision to the production.  The work was propelled by a powerful performance given by Jeff Seppala (class of ’04) in the featured role of Don Giovanni, masterfully supported by Mandy Thompson (class of ’03) as Donna Anna, David Kirkwood (’04) as Don Ottavio, Kristi Young (’04) as Zerlina, Phil Hahn (‘04) as Masetto, Tim Pennoyer (’07) as Leporello and guest artist, baritone Todd Ranney, as the Commendatore.  With a wealth of talent, understudies were assigned to the female roles for each act. The opera was presented on the grandest set ever to grace the Lansing Auditorium stage with costumes provided by Costumes Galore, making for a sumptuous visual as well as musical experience. Inspired by Renaissance architecture, the set was conceived by Dr. Robison and constructed by Andrew Hazen (’04) with the capable assistance of Larry Briner (‘00) and Kevin Chapanian.  Marlin Owen ably conducted the orchestra and considered performing this monumental work as one of his greatest musical experiences as a conductor.   The production was perhaps the crowning achievement in a string of Mozart productions by the Biola Opera Theatre that have included Cosi fan tutte (1998), The Marriage of Figaro (2000) and The Magic Flute (2001).

	BIOLA RECORDINGS
	Conservatory CD's are available through the Conservatory Office by calling (562) 903-4892. The recordings reflect the diversity of talent and creativity within the Conservatory.

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