UNIVERSITY OF UTAH SCHOOL OF MUSIC PRESENTS
U Opera and the Utah Philharmonia
La bohème
By Giacomo Puccini
Libretto by Giuseppe Giacosa and Luigi Illica
April 18-19, 2025
Kingsbury Hall | 7:30 PM
Robert Baldwin and Michail Trachalios, conductors
James Bobick, stage director
Mitchell Giambalvo, Hao Ding, and Mac Merchant, rehearsal pianists
Good evening!
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 2025 U Opera production of La bohème. This masterpiece of music and drama is certainly one of Giacomo Puccini’s greatest works and one that is incredibly important to me personally.
La bohème had its premiere in 1896, with a 28-year-old Arturo Toscanini conducting, and is based on the Henri Murger novel Scènes de la vie de bohème. In English, the opera’s title means ‘Bohemianism’ or ‘the bohemian lifestyle,’ which is often understood to be a way of life that embraces artistic pursuits and individual creativity over societal norms. Bohemians were characterized by their free-spirited, non-conformist approach to living, often concentrating their time on art, music, and literature, while rejecting material possessions.
Within this societal context, the story of La bohème follows a group of six struggling young artists in 19th-century Paris and focuses, primarily, on
the relationship between Rodolfo, a poet, and Mimì, an embroiderer, as well as their friends, Marcello, Musetta, Schaunard, and Colline. The opera explores themes of love, friendship, poverty, illness, and the realities of the bohemian lifestyle. Of course, these themes also lead us to poignant tragedy.
I have had the great fortune to perform La bohème many, many times across my career and, every time, I have found facets to the story or nuances in the music that make me love this work even more. For me, it is the perfect opera. So, as the director of tonight’s production, I have tried to capture for you all those elements that have inspired me over the years. I want you to feel the familial bond of friendship shared by the four men who live in the garret, to recognize the deep well of affection that lies at the heart of Musetta and Marcello’s turbulent relationship, and to experience Mimì and Rodolfo’s profound love to such a depth that you are shaken to your very core with her untimely demise. These are the pillars of La bohème. These are the pillars of life.
Thank you all for coming out tonight and for supporting the students of U Opera. We hope you enjoy our production of Puccini’s masterpiece.
-James James Bobick Stage Director
CAST
MIMI
Nadia Englund*
Mackenzie Williams+
RODOLFO
Sam Plumb*
Alex Harrelson+
MARCELLO
Akshay Ghiya*
Mike Murray+
MUSETTA
Meggie Vincent*
Casey Morris+
SCHAUNARD
Porter Hiatt
CHORUS
Nathalia Alvarez
Emily Benson
Dillan Burnett
Natalie Turchin Champagne
Caitlin Corbett
Ricky Cornejo
Nahal Falahatimarvast
Theresa Fassler
Marybeth Groth
Thia Harris
Zekun Huang
*Friday Night
+Saturday Night
COLLINE
Seth Keeton
BENOÎT / ALCINDORO
Nelson LeDuc
PARPIGNOL
Junjie Wang
SERGEANT
Caleb Gordon
CUSTOMS-HOUSE OFFICER
Dorian Dillon
AN OFFICIAL
Caleb Booth
Sage Madsen
Katie Munson
Giovanni Nuvan
Sarah Pierce
Anna Roelofs
Karley Swallow
Will Tepner
Rocio Valle Lucero
Elida Wadsworth
Shichun Wang
Dawn Marie Wells
UTAH PHILHARMONIA
Robert Baldwin, conductor
Michail Trachalios, assistant conductor
VIOLIN 1
Mason Lunceford+
Alina Baron
Kristen Olson
Sarah Kelley
Melanie Hansen
Abby Morrell
Melodee Valentine
Ethan Gardner
VIOLIN 2
Lauren Peck*
Sydney Lofthouse
Maya Dean
Adlyn Bouck
Morgan Conlan
Zanger Voge
Isabella Kim
VIOLA
Tobias Roth*
Caitlyn Curry
Myalee Smith
Miri Randall
Eli Wilson
Lillian Ault
William Wiest
CELLO
Marcos Rangel*
Nicholas Kelley
Debbie Hsu
Eden Wilson
Karina Miner
Kai Bowen
BASS
Megan Hall*
Adeline Hiemstra
HARP
Marienna Smith*
FLUTE
David Bennett*
PICCOLO
Siyong Kim
OBOE
Anna Larson*
ENGLISH HORN
Caeydn McCormick
CLARINET
Leila Sereki*
Rachel Berghahn
BASSOON
Luke Pfeil*
HORN
Tanner Chipman*
Justice Nugent
TRUMPET
Ann Bateman*
Braden Collison
TROMBONE
Kade Gordon*
PERCUSSION
Jake Harker**
Drew Fallon**
Ella Prawitt
Dallon Hansen
Joshua Canul
TIMPANI
Jackson Prestley
CELESTE
Lauren Tian Machado
ORGAN
Paul Pisano
+Concertmaster
*Principal
**Co-principal
PRODUCTION TEAM
ROBERT BALDWIN
Conductor
MICHAIL TRACHALIOS
Assistant Conductor
JAMES BOBICK
Stage Director
HALEE RASMUSSEN
Technical Director
AUTUMN HENDRICKSON
Stage Manager
HALEE RASMUSSEN
Scenic Design
ARIKA SCHOCKMEL
Properties Design
SARA CLARK
Lighting Design
ROBIN FARNSLEY-BECKER
Costume Design
JACOB MARTINEZ
Sound Design
PAUL DORGAN
Supertitle Design
JOEL THOMPSON
Supertitle Operator
SIERRA LOERTSCHER
1ST Assistant Stage Manager
SAMANTHA BELL
2ND Assistant Stage Manager
ANDREW LIDDELL
Production Assistant
AMBER BIELINSKI
Production Mentor
SETH MILLER
Master Electrician
CARA POMEROY
Load-in Load-Out
ADAM DAY
Load-in
HAO DING
Rehearsal Pianist
MAC MERCHANT
Rehearsal Pianist
MITCHELL GIAMBALVO
Rehearsal Pianist
PRODUCTION TEAM
KIMBERLY COUNCILL
Producer and Director of the School of Music
JAMES BOBICK
Production Manager
COLBY CARPENTER
Sound Board
GUILLERMO OVIEDO HANNAH RICH
Spotlight Operators
IAN ANDERSON
Light Board
KINGBURY HALL TEAM
AJA VOGELMAN
Operations Director
ASHLEY BEHUNIN
Production Manager
ALEX HARRELSON
Graduate Teaching Assistant, U Opera
KARLEY SWALLOW
Social Media Coordinator, U Opera
Props/Deck
Jake Englestad
Zoe Lupcho
Parker Mathews
Gabe Root
Avneet Sandhu
Aurora Nelson
Wardrobe Crew
Tia Wisco
Grace Chavez
Avery Carlin
Jaycey Hartle
Harrison Timm
Isaac Petersen
Carina Purdy
DAVID BRAITHWAITE
Technical Director
JAMES PADILLA
Lighting Supervisor
CAST BIOS
NATHALIA ALVAREZ
Nathalia Alvarez is pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and studying under Professor Julie Wright-Costa at the University of Utah. She is a member of the University’s Chamber Choir, directed by Dr. Barlow Bradford, which is currently preparing for their upcoming tour in Italy this May. Nathalia made her Opera debut with U Opera as Suor Dolcina and Guccio in Puccini’s Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicci, and had the pleasure of performing as Adele in Die Fledermaus with U Opera this February. Other credits include Amahl in Amahl and the Night Visitors, and Edith in Pirates of Penzance. She is currently preparing for her upcoming Senior recital this next Fall. Outside of singing, Nathalia enjoys the piano, drums, and composing music.
EMILY BENSON
Emily previously studied voice for four years under Carol Ann Modesitt and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance from SUU in 2024. She made her operatic debut as Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi. She has also been seen as a Novice in Suor Angelica and Zelda aged 18 in The Ghosts of Gatsby. Most recently she sang the role of Micaëla in SUU’s production of Carmen. In the fall of 2023 Emily won and performed in the Music Masterworks Concerto Competition at SUU. In April she was honored to be the featured soprano soloist in the Rossini Stabat Mater masterwork through SUU Symphony Orchestra and Choir. She is excited to be pursuing her education in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah, where she is studying under the direction of Dr. Carol Ann Allred. In her free time, Emily can be found listening to opera, reading Don Quixote, or playing with her pet chickens.
CALEB BOOTH
Caleb Booth, baritone, is a second-year Choral Education major making his operatic debut with the University of Utah this year. At just 20 years old, Booth has exceptional vocal and piano abilities, with credit to his mother, Jennette Booth, for inciting his training in both facets. He studies as a classical baritone under Aubrey Adams-McMillan. Across his 15+ years of piano training, Caleb has
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served as an accompanist for his former high school choir, as well as for occasional solo endeavors. His repertoire extends from Ragtime to intricate Romantic works. Booth is currently the recipient of the Ellen Nelson Barnes Endowed Choir Scholarship and the Mariani Voice Scholarship. As a bonus, Caleb is bilingual in English and Mandarin Chinese and has sung with the Salt Lake Chinese Choir and the University of Utah Chamber Choir. He would like to thank his friends and family for supporting his musical journey.
DILLAN BURNETT
Dillan Burnett is a tenor and senior in the BMus Vocal Performance Program here at the U. He is also completing the BA International Studies degree with a minor in Portuguese & Brazilian Studies. He has been involved in U Opera's productions of Die Fledermaus as Dr. Blind, A.L.I.C.E. as chorus, Amahl and the Night Visitors as Page, A Christmas Carol as Bob Cratchitt, Trial By Jury as Counsel, Gianni Schicchi as Marco, and Sweeney Todd and Rigoletto as chorus. Dillan has also been featured as soloist in community performances of Lamb of God (U of U Institute Choir), Sight and Sounds: Songs for salt 16 (UMFA-Student Opera Guild), Gospel Choir Christmas Concert (U of U Institute), Messiah (Cottonwood Creek Stake Orchestra), Elijah (American West Symphony), and Sonic Blossom (UMFA International Performance Art). He recently performed a successful senior recital, The Universal Language, featuring 10 different languages and in collaboration with several student musicians from the School of Music. He his forever grateful for the support of his loved ones, colleagues, and his voice teacher Dr. Lynn Maxfield!
CAITLIN CORBETT
Caitlin Corbett is a soprano getting her undergraduate degree in both Vocal Performance and Psychology at the University of Utah. She studies under Dr. Julie Wright-Costa. This is her first semester majoring in Vocal Performance and has participated in the chorus of Die Fledermaus at the U. She has also participated in the chorus for Mozart’s The Magic Flute at the Grand Teton Music Festival. Before adding her Vocal Performance degree to her psychology degree, she was
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a music minor. This led her to participate in the University of Utah’s Chamber Choir, where she was inspired to pursue music more seriously. She is excited for this opportunity to study Vocal Performance at the University of Utah over the next few years.
RICKY CORNEJO
Ricky Cornejo is a freshman tenor pursuing a BM in Vocal performance at the University of Utah. Studying with Dr. Robert Breault, he was involved in his first opera as a chorus member for the University of Utah’s production of Die Fledermaus. Ricky is also involved in the Michie Undergraduate Quartet as well as the Barbershop Quartet, which he formed. He has also performed Carmina Burana at Abravanel Hall as a member of the A cappella choir.
NATALIE CHAMPAGNE
Originally from the Republic of Moldova, soprano Natalie Champagne enjoys an international career that has taken her to Romania, Belarus, Poland, Czechia, Bulgaria, Austria, Russia, Italy, and the United States of America. She holds degrees from the Romanian National University of Music, the Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory in St. Petersburg, and Southeastern Louisiana University, where she studied under Dr. J. Mouledous. She is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of Utah, studying under Professor Julie Wright-Costa. Recent stage performances include the title role in the orchestral premiere of Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., Future in Leavitt’s A Christmas Carol, the title role in Viardot’s Cendrillon, Margaret March in Howland’s Little Women, and an appearance in Songs for a New World by Jason Robert Brown. In 2022, she performed Elvira in L’Italiana in Algeri at the La Musica Lirica summer program. Recent performances include the Utah District Laffont Competition and solo performances in Lee Mingwei’s Sonic Blossom. In the spring, she looks forward to singing Adele in the U production of Strauss’ Die Fledermaus. Natalie is thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with so many great artists and musicians.
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DORIAN DILLON
Dorian Dillon is a Sophomore at the University of Utah. She is ecstatic to perform in her first nonEnglish production with U Opera. Most recently, Dorian performed as Ivan in U Opera’s production of Die Fledermaus (2025). Other notable roles include The Phantom in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera (OGC 2023) and Rolf in The Sound of Music (OGC 2021). Dorian currently studies voice with Dr. Julie Wright-Costa, as well as classical trombone under Dr. Donn Schaefer, Professor Craig Moore, and The Utah Symphony’s Sam Elliot. She also plays classical, jazz, and rock bass. Additionally, Dorian is an accomplished dancer, winning third place in Waltz at the Utah Classic Ballroom Competition and performing in various roles, such as the Mouse Prince, in Ballet West’s The Nutcracker. Despite her life being consumed by the performing arts, Dorian manages to find time for gaming, cats, and all things Star Wars (she got her start in acting as an “Andwok” in Off Broadway Theatre’s Star Ward at the age of five).
An eternity of thank yous to parents, siblings, and pets, for the encouragement to start and continue performing and making music, including all the emotional support along the way!
NADIA ENGLUND
Nadia Englund is a third-year doctoral student at the University of Utah School of Music, where she studies vocal performance with Professor Kirstin Chávez. Prior to studying at the University of Utah, Nadia completed graduate studies in vocal performance at Boston University, where she studied with Maria Spacagna and Simon Estes, after earning her undergraduate degree in vocal performance at Brigham Young University. Nadia’s prior roles include the title role in the School of Music’s April 2023 production of Puccini’s Suor Angelica, the Queen of Hearts in U Opera’s production of A.L.I.C.E., and Mimì in La bohème. Nadia has also performed concert and recital pieces in Boston, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Chicago, and Southern Italy, including the works of Gustav Mahler, Richard Strauss, and Hugo Wolf. Nadia is also passionate about teaching and has enjoyed working as an instructor of undergraduate students at the University of Utah, while also maintaining an active private home vocal studio. Nadia is also a member of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. She and her husband Jason are the parents of four children.
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KIM FAIRBOURN
Kim Fairbourn holds a bachelor of arts degree in music/ liberal arts with a choral/ vocal emphasis from Weber State University, and is currently in her first year of the vocal performance and pedagogy masters program at the U. She has been teaching voice and piano for over 30 years in her private studio. She has toured internationally with the Salt Lake Vocal Artists and has performed as a soloist with that group. She was recently a finalist in the Cal-Western Region of the National Association of Music Teachers (NATS) competition and holds several volunteer positions in local music teachers’ organizations. She loves to direct church choirs, and is currently directing two. Her greatest achievement has been creating her family with her husband Todd. Together they have 6 children, 2 daughters in law, one granddaughter, and one adorable dog.
NAHAL FALAHATIMARVA
Nahal Falahatimarvast is a third-year Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance major. Studying under, mezzosoprano, Kirstin Chávez and, baritone, James Bobick at the University of Utah. She was born in Tehran, Iran and came to the United States in 2022 pursuing her dream of becoming a professional opera singer. As a newcomer to opera, she is grateful to work with U opera in this production. She enjoys watching movies, horseback riding, cooking, and spending time with her husband, Erfan.
AKSHAY GHIYA
Akshay Ghiya is a lyric baritone, currently pursuing a Master of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. With a large, warm, and captivating voice, Akshay has brought to life many roles on stage that highlight his versatility as a performer. Recent roles of note include Sergeant Belcore in Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore, Pierre Lafitte in Beach’s Cabildo, Lord Mountararat in Sullivan’s Iolanthe, and many more. Additionally, Akshay has studied and performed numerous concert roles, having performed as a soloist in Handel’s The Messiah and Orff’s Carmina Burana. When he is not performing, Akshay enjoys teaching voice and writing music of his own. He is currently a student of Dr. Robert Breault.
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CALEB GORDON
Caleb is excited to be a part of U Opera this year! Caleb is a 3rd year undergraduate student at the University of Utah, Majoring in Theatre Studies with a Minor in music. This is his first venture into the world of Opera, and he is thrilled to be exploring this fascinating art form. Recent performing credits include The Drowsy Chaperone (Swing) at the Grand Theatre in Salt Lake, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (Ensemble) at the Grand Theatre, and A Christmas Carol (Caroler/ensemble) at Hale Center Theater Orem.
MARYBETH GROTH
MaryBeth Groth is a soprano currently studying under Dr. Carol Ann Allred at the University of Utah. Originally from North Florida, she moved to Salt Lake City to focus on studying classical acting and theatre. MaryBeth stepped into the world of opera after being invited to sing in U Opera’s production of Sweeney Todd in 2022. Since then, she has had the honor of appearing in several operatic productions, singing roles such as Ida in Die Fledermaus, La Novizia in Suor Angelica, Tiny Tim in A Christmas Carol and others. In January 2023 She appeared in Utah Symphony and Utah Opera’s production of Orff’s Carmina Burana and in 2024 sang sections of Don Giovonni and Don Pasquale as Zerlina and Norina with American West Symphony and U Opera. In April MaryBeth sang in the world orchestral premiere of Amy Scurria’s new opera A.L.I.C.E.
THIA HARRIS
Thia Harris is a dynamic mezzo-soprano based in Salt Lake City, pursuing a Master of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. Hailing from Detroit and Atlanta, her classical music journey began at Spelman College. Inspired by legends like Marian Anderson and Jessye Norman, Cynthia has performed
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diverse roles, including The Duchess in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., Aphrodite in Rudman and Leonard’s Protectress, Mrs. Cratchit in Leavitt and Buck’s A Christmas Carol, and La Badessa in Puccini’s Suor Angelica. Ms. Harris has also premiered choral works for St. Benedict, the African Catholic Church in Chicago, IL, and The Marshes of Glynn with the Meridian Chorale in Atlanta, GA. Presently, Thia enchants audiences with U Opera and St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Choir.
ALEX HARRELSON
Alex Harrelson is a tenor pursuing a DMA at the University of Utah. He studies under Dr. Robert Breault. At the U, he has performed as the Mad Hatter and the White Rabbit in A.L.I.C.E., a new opera by Amy Scurria, as well as Marley, Fred, and Cratchitt in A Christmas Carol, King Kaspar in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi, the Defendant in Trial by Jury, and Ferrando in scenes from Cosi fan tutte. In addition to operatic performance, Alex has performed several song cycles in private and degree concerts. He has performed Schubert’s Die schöne Müllerin, Beethoven’s An die ferne Geliebte, Schumann’s Dichterliebe, and most recently Wolf’s Italienishces Liederbuch. Moreover, he has performed as the tenor soloist in Handel’s Messiah with the Nebo Holiday Chorus and Orchestra. With Lyrical Opera Theater, he has performed Le Remendado in Carmen, Gherardo in Gianni Schicchi, Parpignol in La bohème, and Count Almaviva in Il Barbiere di Siviglia. Other notable roles include Gastone in La Traviata and Lindoro in L’Italiana in Algeri. Alex regularly sings with the Cathedral of the Madeleine and in opera outreach within Salt Lake and Utah counties.
R. PORTER HIATT
R. Porter Hiatt, baritone, is thoroughly enthused to be singing for the University of Utah! Porter is currently working towards a degree in vocal performance at the University of Utah, studying under Seth Keeton. He has performed in a wide array of opera, musical theater, operetta, and straight play. Some of his favorite past credits include; The Pirate King in The Pirates of Penzance, Sir John Tremayne
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in Me and My Girl, counselor Pélégrin in The Count of Luxembourg The Usher in Trial By Jury, King Melchior in Amahl and the Night Visitors, and various brothers in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. In addition to performing in various forms of staged performance, Porter also loves performing concert works. A few past experiences including; the baritone solo in Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, and the baritone solo for Mendelsohn’s Psalm 42.
ZEKUN HUANG
Zekun Huang is a lyric soprano known for her expressive performances and passion for music. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from The Hartt School in 2022 and her Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the same institution in 2024. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah, continuing to refine her artistry and expand her repertoire. Her notable roles include Pamina in Die Zauberflöte, Clara in Signor Deluso, Susanna in "Sull’aria" from Le Nozze di Figaro, and Frasquita in the quintet from Carmen. Zekun Huang has worked with wonderful voice teachers such as Robert Breault, Sondra Kelly, and Angela Gooch, as well as accomplished vocal coaches Kyle Swann, Lynn Kao, Samuel Martin, and Mac Merchant. Her collaborations with directors Matthew Ferraro, Jillian Foley, and Sondra Kelly. Also worked with conductors Doris Lang Kosloff and Lynn Kao, have greatly enriched her performance experiences.
SETH KEETON
Bass-baritone, Seth Keeton’s performances have been described by The New York Times as “driven” and “emotionally pointed,” and “stentorian” by Opera News. He has performed roles on the stages of opera companies throughout the United States, and Theater Bremen in Bremen, Germany. In 2006, he was a national finalist in the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions and has received awards from the Sullivan Foundation and the Eleanor McCollum Competition. In art song and in recital, Dr. Keeton presents tightly knit recitals, singing pieces in unique combination and often including rarely performed works. In 2018, he was featured on a recording, Chamber Music, Volume 2, of forgotten composer, Richard Stöhr,
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and 2020 saw the release of Transparent Boundaries, an album of art song set to the poetry of Whitman and Dickinson. As a scholar, Keeton has created the online song index SongHelix, that simplifies the discovery of related art songs. This free resource can be found at www.songhelix.com. Dr. Keeton received his Doctorate of Musical Arts in Vocal Performance from the University of Minnesota and is an Associate Professor of Voice at the University of Utah.
NESLON LEDUC
Nelson LeDuc has been singing professionally for over 30 years. He has participated in close to 90 productions with Utah Opera Company. In the last several years, he has performed as Balthazar in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Old Joe in Michael Levitt's A Christmas Carol, and Simone in Gianni Schicchi, all with the University of Utah's opera program. Other recent roles with Lyrical Opera Theater include Pistole in Falstaff, Baron Douphol in La Traviata, Monterone in Rigoletto, and Raimondo in Lucia di Lammermoor. In addition to his work as a singer, Nelson is also pursuing a degree in composition at the University of Utah. He has had a number of his compositions performed recently including several art songs and a piece for string quartet. His vocal trio Nothing Gold Can Stay was premiered at a showcase of new vocal music by Opera Contempo in 2023.
ROCIO VALLE LUCERO
Rocio Valle Lucero is an accomplished opera singer. Born in Mexico, she began her vocal training at a young age as a church choir member and went on to earn a degree in vocal performance in Ciudad, Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico. Rocio has performed as a chorister and soloist in northern Mexico, Texas, Utah, and Nebraska. She has also worked with renowned coaches and teachers such as Anthony Laciura, Dr. Isaac Hurtado, and Deborah Voigt. She has studied at the studio of tenor Jesus Suaste and vocal coach Judith Natalucci. Some of Rocio's most notable performances include Suor Dolcina in Suor Angelica, Opera To Go concert series, and Frida 1 and Guadalupe Ponti in "El último sueño de Frida y Diego" with Opera Omaha. In addition to her operatic work, Rocio has performed in various concerts and festivals around Mexico and the US. She is currently pursuing her master's degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Utah in the studio of mezzosoprano Kirstin Marie Chavez.
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SAGE MADSEN
Sage Madsen is a fourth year mezzo-soprano studying with Professor Julie Wright-Costa at the U of U School of Music. She has been a member of the University of Utah Chamber Choir for four years, and has performed three shows and multiple scenes with the University of Utah Opera. Some of her previous credits include Amahl and the Night Visitors, A Christmas Carol, A.L.I.C.E., The Addams Family, Xanadu, and Cinderella. She studied voice and acting in Germany at the International Performing Arts Institute, and is the proud recipient of the Legacy Alumni Scholarship and the Chipman Music Scholarship.
DAWN MARIE WELLS
Dawn Marie Wells is a soprano and second-year vocal performance and music theory student at the University of Utah studying with Julie Wright-Costa. She is pursuing her second degree after receiving a BA in English Teaching and a minor in music from BYU in 1999. Over the years, she has played violin in university and community orchestras; played piano and organ for various church and community groups; and sung in community and church choirs both in Utah and Germany. She played Eve in the premiere of the musical For Such a Time as This by Lindy Kerby. Her U Opera debut was in December 2023 where she played Mrs. Fezziwig, Ignorance, and Young Ebenezer in Leavitt’s A Christmas Carol. She also played the Cook in Amy Scurria’s A.L.IC.E. She is the proud mother of six children.
JACQUELYN MILLIGAN
Jacquelyn Milligan, a gifted soprano, has impressed with her clear and dramatic voice. Notable recent roles include Rosalinda in Die Fledermaus, The Mother in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Maestra Della Novizie in Puccini's Suor Angelica, Nella in Gianni Schicchi, and The Judge in Gilbert and Sullivan's Trial by Jury at the University of Utah. She's also been seen in various U Opera productions such as Rigoletto, Dialogues of the Carmelites, and Don Giovanni. Graduating with a Bachelor's in Vocal Performance in 2021, she will be graduating with her Master's degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy May 2nd.
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CASEY MORRIS
Casey Morris is a vocal artist from Hockessin, Delaware. She has been praised for her expressive and intentional performances, as well as the sweet color of her voice. Casey’s most recent role was Vitellia in La Clemenza di Tito (University of Delaware Lyric Theatre). Notable previous performances include debuting as Calypso in Penelope and the Geese (University of Delaware Lyric Theatre), and Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Chicago Summer Opera). Concert performances include participation in the Chicana Art Song Project recital (University of Delaware), and Flowers, a collaborative recital with soprano, Alena Carhart, and mezzo-soprano, Mairin Srygley (First Church of Christ Scientist, Newark). Casey has served as both a private voice instructor and music educator and holds a B.M. in Vocal Performance and Music Education from West Chester University of Pennsylvania, as well as an M.M. in Vocal Performance from the University of Delaware.
KATIE MUNSON
Katie Munson is a mezzo-soprano pursuing her DMA at the University of Utah. Katie grew up singing in choirs and surrounded by music, but never dreamed she would pursue it as a career. She was raised in Roanoke VA and graduated from Liberty University with a degree MA in Music Education: Performance in 2021. She is passionate about opera, theater, dance, and backstage work as well. Some of Katie’s performances include; Le Nozze di Figaro, The Sound of Music, Hänsel und Gretel, The Little Mermaid, The Magic Flute, The Music Man, and Così fan Tutte. Katie is very grateful for the opportunity to perform with the University of Utah’s opera program.
MICHAEL MURRAY
Born a to a rural Idaho farm family, Michael Murray grew up participating in music at church. He sang in the choir, and accompanied his congregation on the piano and organ. Murray’s first professional experience took place when he joined a men’s six-member vocal group. Led by Dr. Barlow Bradford and accompanied by the Honolulu Symphony, they performed at the Brigham Young University Hawaii 50-year
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Jubilee celebration. In 2017 he was invited to join the Salt Lake Choral Artists in preparation for their European tour and the international choral competition in Spain. In 2018, under the direction of Dr. Brady Allred he sang at the Tolosa Initiative Center. In 2022 Murray’s induction into the world of opera took place. He was cast as a chorus member in Lucia De Lammermoor with Lyrical Opera Company. Under the direction of Lynette Owens he took his first lead role in Tosca as Sacristan later that same year. It was after this experience that he discovered the depth of his passion for singing. Murray took the opportunity to apply to the University of Utah Masters of Vocal Performance program. He has enjoyed various roles at the U since such as Melchior in Amahl and the Night Visitors as well as the Judge in Trial By Jury. When he’s not studying or performing, Murray enjoys an active career as a luthier, helping fellow musicians by making, repairing, and supplying violins and accessories.
GIOVANNI NUVAN
Giovanni Nuvan is a first-year music student at the University of Utah. He has performed with the Utah Opera Chorus for 4 seasons and was in their most recent production of Pagliacci. He also sings with Madeleine Choir School and works with their high school choir as an assistant conductor. He recently performed the role of Frank in the University of Utah Opera's production of Die Fledermaus. He plays the violin and the piano, and he aspires to become a conductor, specializing in Spanish and Italian operatic repertoire following graduation.
SARAH PIERCE
Sarah Pierce is the student of Dr. Julie Wright-Costa, and she is sophomore in the Vocal Performance program at The University of Utah (the U). Sarah as last seen in The Christmas Carol with the U as Charity Woman #2 and part of the ensemble for Amahl and The Night Visitors. Sarah has performed in choirs all across the United States including The U’s A Capella Choir and most recently, Chamber Choir, Brigham Young University’s Women’s chorus, and multiple community choirs and honor choirs in Mississippi. Sarah is new to the opera performance world, but she is happy to be there and to learn from so many talented musicians and performers.
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SAM PLUMB
Sam Plumb has been storytelling via song his whole life. A child of military veterans, Sam was raised in several American states, settling in Utah as an adult. After spending his grade school years in choirs and community theatre productions, he decided to dedicate his life to the art of singing and music education. Following initial studies at the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, He received his B.M. in Vocal Performance, Summa Cum Laude, from Utah Valley University He is currently working towards completion of a M.M. in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Utah, where he was most recently seen as The Mad Hatter/White Rabbit in Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E.. During the Summer 2024 season he enjoyed performing the title role in Benjamin Britten’s Albert Herring in his company debut with Chicago Summer Opera. As a Teaching Assistant, he performs as part of the University of Utah Graduate Vocal Quartet, and has a wonderful time teaching private lessons to undergraduate students. It is his great privilege to share his voice with the artlovers of Salt Lake.
ANNA ROELOFS
Anna Roelofs, soprano, is a senior in the Vocal Performance program and is delighted for one final season at the University of Utah, studying under Julie Wright-Costa (classical) and Emily Castleton (musical theatre), formerly studying under Dr. Carol Ann Allred. Prior highlight roles from her academic experiences include Amahl (Amahl & the Night Visitors, Menotti) and Daisy (A.L.I.C.E. — World Orchestral Premiere, Scurria), among others. In conjunction with her classical training, Roelofs thrives as a crossover artist in the vocal and theatrical worlds, bridging genres and mediums alike in her pursuits. She recently competed in the Northern Utah NATS, placing 2nd in Classical and 1st in Musical Theatre. In 2022, Anna founded the voice acting production group, Roe Dubs — an international voice actor’s community for all skill levels that seeks to provide high-quality opportunities to practice the craft. She has also been a part of the Utah film community, receiving work from groups such as Studio C and Hallmark. After graduation, Anna intends to pursue a Master’s in Music out of state, with participation in a summer program prior to her next degree. Special thanks to Dr. Allred, Dr. Breault, Emily, and Julie for all they have done.
CAST BIOS
KARLEY SWALLOW
Karley Swallow, mezzo-soprano, has been described by the Utah Chronicle as showing “consistent power and control” and having “robustness and emotion [in] her voice, which easily command[s] an entire audience.” She is a junior in the Vocal Performance program at the University of Utah, studying under Prof. Kirstin Chávez. Recently, Karley attended the International Performing Arts Institute in Germany where she performed in an international space and collaborated with professionals working in European theater. Karley’s previous roles include Orlofsky in Die Fledermaus, The Queen of Hearts in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., La Zia Principessa (cover) in Suor Angelica, and Zita in Gianni Schicchi. Karley is also a member of the University of Utah’s Chamber Choir and the Michie Undergraduate Quartet
WILLIAM TEPNER
William Tepner, Tenor, is a senior at The University of Utah pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance and a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies. He studies voice under Dr. Seth Keeton. Born and raised in New York City, he has been exposed to and had a love of music and theatre throughout his life. Some of his past roles include Rinuccio (Gianni Schicchi, U Opera), The Defendant (Trial By Jury, U Opera), Anthony Hope (Sweeney Todd, U Opera), and Master Peter (Master Peter's Puppet Show). William is incredibly honored to be a recipient of the Barnes Choral Scholarship. During his free time, William enjoys traveling and spending time with his dog, Moose.
CAST BIOS
MEGGIE VINCENT
Meggie Vincent, a Westminster College graduate, is currently a Master of Music candidate in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Utah. Meggie is not only a singer but an accomplished violinist. She has toured Europe and various parts of the United States for performances in both voice and violin. Meggie credits much of her success to Aubrey Adams-McMillan, her voice teacher at Westminster College. Today, she is pleased to be studying with Professor Julie Wright-Costa at the University of Utah. Meggie is a natural-born teacher and has loved teaching in her private studio over the last seven years. She loves learning and growing as an artist and instructor and is grateful to be at the University of Utah under the tutelage of some remarkable musicians and technicians. Meggie has performed in numerous shows and recitals in the past few years. Most recently, she was seen in the 2023 Westminster College production of Weiner and Zachary's First Date and in the department's Opera Scenes program. Also, in the spring of 2023, she performed with the New American Philharmonic and the Salt Lake Singers as the soprano soloist in John Rutter's Requiem. This last spring, Meggie performed the role of the Cheshire Cat and Alice’s Sister in U Opera’s production, and world orchestral premiere of Amy Scurria's A.L.I.C.E. Meggie looks forward to participating in more productions for U Opera and other stages in the near future.
ELIDA WADSWORTH
Elida Wadsworth, soprano, is a master’s student at the University of Utah pursuing her degree in vocal performance and pedagogy. Elida is in the voice studio of Dr. Carol Ann Allred and was the cover for Adele in Die Fledermaus with U Opera in February of this year. Her other major roles have included Mabel in The Pirates of Penzance and Diana in Orpheus in the Underworld. Originally from Kennewick Washington, Elida holds two BM degrees in vocal performance and choral music education from Central Washington University. Elida has enjoyed her time working as a substitute music teacher in both Utah and Washington, while also performing with various groups and choirs.
CAST BIOS
JUNJIE WANG
Junjie Wang, a skilled tenor, began his vocal training at the age of 12, showing an early passion for music that has greatly influenced his career. He is currently a Doctor of Music Arts student in Vocal Performance at The University of Utah, having started his studies in August 2023 learning with Dr. Keeton. Wang, with his tenor voice, has been recognized for his musical talent and has received awards in China. He won the Golden Award at the 2021 Chinese-Russian College Students Art Festival, followed by the Second Prize at the 6th College Student Art Exhibition in Shandong Province in the same year. In addition, he earned the Excellence Award at the 15th American Classical Vocalists International Vocal Competition in 2018 and the Third Prize at the Shandong Youth Singer Competition in 2017. As a tenor, Wang's performance experience is extensive and varied. His repertoire is dominated by German and Italian art songs by composers such as Schubert, Schumann, Bellini, and operas.In 2022, he played significant roles in operas such as "The Daughter of the Party," "folk songs on the Canal," and "Yimeng Mountain" at a concert at Shandong University Music Hall.And participated in the premiere of the opera Alice.
SHICHUN WANG
Shichun Wang is currently pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. She studies under Dr. Carol Ann Allred. Her voice is warm, graceful, and fluid across three octaves. Shichun developed a deep passion for early music, inspiring her to earn her degree from the Longy School of Music in Boston. Her education at Longy allowed her to explore various musical genres, from historical to contemporary. Shichun deepened her understanding of vocal performance and technique, discovering that teaching was as meaningful to her as performing. With fewer people today gravitating toward early music, Shichun finds joy in connecting her students with early music and guiding them to find their unique voices. Inspired by her Chinese heritage and Western experiences, she blends traditional and modern teaching methods, creating a unique and welcoming learning environment. Shichun describes herself as “traditional but unusual.” She balances classical training with a fresh, inquisitive approach to teaching and performing. Her mission is to inspire others to share her passion and appreciation for music.
MACKENZIE WILLIAMS
Mackenzie Williams is excited to work with U Opera for the 2024-2025 season. Mackenzie is currently a master's student at the University of Utah’s department of music studying vocal performance and pedagogy. She worked with U Opera last season as Belle for A Christmas Carol and the Queen of Hearts in A.L.I.C.E.
During her undergraduate years at Southern Utah University, Mackenzie participated in choirs, national competitions, and both musical and opera theater. Highlights include her roles as Zelda(48) from The Ghosts of Gatsby, the Green Soloist in Naamah’s Ark, and the soprano soloist in Gustav Mahler’s Symphonie Nr. 2. While at SUU, Mackenzie also helped in the direction of the operas Gianni Schicchi, Suor Angelica, and talk opera as their assistant director. She has worked as a soloist in the Orchestra of Southern Utah’s Messiah as well as their R.L. Halverson Young Artist Competition. When not involved in her studies, she works as a Stage Manager Coordinator and Teaching Assistant for the School of Music, as well as being a voice and piano teacher at Sandy Music Academy. When she has free time, she enjoys spending it with her husband and family.
PRODUCTION BIOS
JAMES BOBICK
Stage Director
James Bobick has had a versatile career, from leading operatic roles in the works of Donizetti, Verdi, Bizet, and Mozart to those in the operas of contemporary composers including Jake Heggie, Mark Adamo, John Eaton, and David T. Little. Mr. Bobick was seen in over twenty roles at New York City Opera, including an Emmy-winning broadcast of La bohème. Mr. Bobick has also appeared with companies including Los Angeles Opera, Seattle Opera, Portland Opera, Opera Colorado, Connecticut Opera, Opera Mississippi, Opera Omaha, Opera Pacific, Opera Delaware, Virginia Opera, Baltimore Opera, Wichita Grand Opera, Dayton Opera, Central City Opera, Fort Worth Opera, and the Bard Festival.
James Bobick is also a frequent concert soloist. At Carnegie Hall, he has been heard in Orff’s Carmina Burana, Mendelssohn’s Die Erste Walpurgisnacht, Mozart’s Coronation Mass, and Haydn’s Lord Nelson Mass, and at David Geffen Hall in Carmina Burana, Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Haydn’s Creation and Paukenmesse, Bach's Mass in B minor, and Handel’s Messiah. Among his international credits are solo performances in the Czech Republic, Costa Rica, France, and at Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris. Mr. Bobick has enjoyed numerous concert performances around the United States in the works of Orff, Brahms, Mozart, Bach, Handel, Haydn, Vaughan Williams, Prokofiev, and Paul McCartney. James Bobick can be heard on the original cast recording of David T. Little’s Dog Days.
PRODUCTION BIOS
ROBERT BALDWIN Conductor
Robert Baldwin is the Director of Orchestras and Professor of Conducting at the University of Utah and is the Music Director and Conductor for the Salt Lake Symphony. He is the founding conductor for Sinfonia Salt Lake, and also holds an honorary adjunct professor position at Wuhan University Center for the Arts in China. This past December, he conducted the National Chorale’s Messiah Sing-In at Lincoln Center in New York. International appearances include the Eutin Festspiele in Germany, Kuopio Academy in Finland, Hermitage Camerata in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Busan Maru Music Festival in South Korea, and the Hunan, Wuhan University, and Wuhan Conservatory Symphonies in China. He holds degrees from the University of Northern Colorado, the University of Iowa, and the University of Arizona. Also, a published poet, his works have appeared in various publications, including Poetry Quarterly and Haiku Journal. Desert Crossing, his second chapbook of poems, will be published in the spring of 2024.
MICHAIL TRACHALIOS
Assistant Conductor
Residing in Salt Lake City, Michail Trachalios is an active conductor who originates from Greece. With a wide range of repertoire, Trachalios has performed with orchestras in the United States, Portugal, and Greece. As a former director of the Thessaloniki Megaron Youth Symphony Orchestra (MOYSA), Trachalios had the opportunity to perform with the renewed cellist Zuil Bailley and assist Mro. Thomas Sanderling. He also worked as assistant conductor of Mro. Phillipe Forget and Mro. Michalis Economou for production with the Thessaloniki Symphony Orchestra and Malta Philharmonic.
As the creator and director of the chamber orchestra “JoveNata Ensemble,” Trachalios performed a large string-only repertoire for the last three years, enriching the cultural identity of his hometown, Thessaloniki. He has also conducted the Athens State Orchestra, Thessaloniki State Symphony Orchestra, Athens Symphony Orchestra, Utah Philharmonia, Univerisity of Utah Campus Symphony Orchestra, UWM Symphony Orchestra, Cascais and Oeiras Chamber Orchestra, and Camerata Junior.
He studied music composition at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki under Prof. Christos Samaras, and he did his master’s in conducting at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee under Dr. Jun Kim. He also took private classes in orchestral conducting with Mro. Michalis Economou while he participated in masterclasses with Ankush Kumar Bahl, and Nikolay Lalov. He is a DMA candidate at the University of Utah under Dr. Robert Baldwin. During his free time, Michail enjoys hiking and watching movies
HALEE RASMUSSEN
Set Designer and Technical Director
Halee Rasmussen (Set Design) received her BFA from the University of Utah's Performing Arts and Design Program with a double emphasis in technical direction and set design. She is currently the Assistant Technical Director and Scenic Charge Artist for the U of U Department of Theatre, and a resident set designer for The Grand Theatre. Other design credits include U of U Opera Ensemble, Plan B Theatre Company, Salt Lake Acting Company, Salt Lake Shakespeare Company, Alligator Press Productions, and Lagoon Entertainment, with assistant design credits from Idaho Shakespeare Festival, Great Lakes Theatre Company, and Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival.
ARIKA SCHOCKMEL
Prop Designer
Arika has worked extensively in props and costume crafts for theatre, television, and film. She is the resident Prop Manager for Plan B Theatre and the University of Utah Department of Theatre, where she teaches Prop Design and Construction and Scenography. Arika has propped, crafted, and designed throughout the West, including Pioneer Theatre Co., University Opera, Egyptian Theatre, Utah Festival Opera, Grand Teton Theatre, Dark Horse Company, Salt Lake Acting Company, Utah Contemporary, Lyric Repertory Co. and many more. Proud member of S.P.M., the Society of Prop Managers. Other projects include AEA stage management, emceeing, costume design, and the occasional acting gig. BFA Utah State.
PRODUCTION BIOS
ROBIN FARNSLEY-BECKER
Costume
Designer
Costume designer Robin Farnsley-Becker is widely known for her meticulous attention to detail. Her costume creations are well-researched with accurate historical or modern creations. They are made with breathtaking opulence when called for or heart-breaking poverty or simplicity that mirrors a composer or director’s vision. Being a singer and performer herself, she knows how to accomplish all of this with no-detail-too-small quality and the knowledge that comfort is “key” to singing that supports the adage, “You are (can be) what you wear”!
SARA CLARK
Lighting
Designer
Sara Clark is a recent graduate of the U's Performing Arts Design Program. Recent lighting projects include The Addams Family: School Edition (Backstage Performing Arts), Fragments (SLCC), The Lightning Thief and As You Like It (University of Utah Theatre).
JACOB MARTINEZ
Sound Designer
Jacob Martinez is a sound engineer and musician with a passion for music that began with piano at age 6. After focusing on bass and guitar in high school, he studied Music Recording Technologies at SLCC. He recorded, mixed, and mastered albums for many local bands before working in live sound and playing with bands in venues throughout the country. Jacob has worked with A-list acts across the US and most recently served as head of audio at Kingsbury Hall.
PRODUCTION BIOS
AUTUMN HENDRICKSON
Stage Manager
Autumn Hendrickson (Stage Manager) is a junior in the BFA Stage Management program at the University of Utah, originally from Durham, North Carolina. She has enjoyed working on The Sweet Science of Bruising, The Lightning Thief, and Dancing at Lughnasa in the University’s Department of Theatre. She has also had the privilege to intern with the Ririe Woodbury Dance Company on their Re-Play program, as well as with Ballet West on Jekyll and Hyde. She has learned a great deal while working on this show, and feels blessed to have had the opportunity to work with her wonderful team on this production.
ANDREW LIDDELL
Production Assistant
Andrew is a freshman in the BFA Stage Management program. This is his first production at the University of Utah! He is very excited to have the opportunity to work on this wonderfully elegant show with an incredible team and company!
SIERRA LOERTSCHER
First Assistant Stage Manager
Sierra is a senior pursuing a BFA in Stage Management. She started working in theatre at Taylorsville High School as a member of the pit orchestra and stage crew. At the U, she has worked on Town Hall (PA), YTU’s SpongeBob the Musical (2nd ASM), A Midsummer Night’s Dream (1st ASM), and Xanadu (Crew). Sierra has also worked with Sandbox Theatre Company on The Scarlet Pimpernel (ASM), The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (SM), and Joseph…Dreamcoat (SM). She has ushered with Utah First Credit Union Amphitheater for 27 shows.
PRODUCTION BIOS
SAMANTHA BELL
Second Assistant Stage Manager
Samantha Bell is a sophomore in the Stage Management Program at the University of Utah. Originally from Taylor, Utah, she has enjoyed stage management since high school. Since her time at the University, she has worked on Into the Woods (Production Assistant) and Spring Awakening (2nd ASM). She has also worked with companies such as the Ririe Woodbury Dance Company and Hale Center Theater in different technical theater roles. She has learned so much and grown greatly through this process. She is so very grateful to her family and the SM team for their support throughout this process!
