The Tender Land
Opera in Three Acts
November 22 & 23, 2025
Libretto by Horace Everett
Vocal Score by the Composer
DIRECTOR NOTES
Good evening and welcome to U Opera's 2025 production of Aaron Copland's American masterpiece The Tender Land. Tonight's opera is the first in our 2025/2026 season, a season that will feature three amazing pieces that highlight young people and the profound strength they choose to call on as they grow into adulthood.
Composed in 1954, The Tender Land represents Aaron Copland's endeavor to create a distinctly American opera for everyday audiences. Though originally commissioned by Rodgers and Hammerstein for broadcast on NBC, the opera was given its 1954 premiere at New York City Opera where it received mixed reviews. Undeterred, Copland revised the work into its now-celebrated threeact form. With a libretto by Horace Everett that drew inspiration from James Agee and Walker Evans' book, Let Us Now Praise Famous Men, the opera has since gained universal acclaim for its warm orchestration, lyric vocal writing, and quintessentially American sound, a sound reminiscent of Copland's beloved ballets Appalachian Spring and Rodeo.
Set on a Midwestern farm in the 1930s, The Tender Land tells the story of Laurie Moss, who is about to graduate from high school. As her family prepares for her graduation party, two travelers, Martin and Top, arrive seeking work and are hired to help with the harvest. Laurie, restless and yearning for a life beyond the farm, falls in love with the gentle Martin, and the two plan to run away together after the party. However, after Martin and Top are falsely accused of hurting a local girl, tensions erupt. Though their innocence is
eventually established, Martin and Top choose to slip away before dawn, leaving Laurie behind. In the opera's poignant conclusion, Laurie decides to leave home anyway, stepping into an uncertain future with courage and determination, embodying the resilient American spirit that Copland sought to capture.
I hope you enjoy tonight’s production and much as we have enjoyed working on it. If so, please join us for the rest of our season. In February, we will be presenting Engelbert Humperdinck's magical opera Hansel & Gretel in Kingsbury Hall, performed in English with dancers from the University of Utah's School of Dance and a terrific children's chorus from Lehi, Utah. Then, in March, we will close our season with the Broadway classic You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown right here in Libby Gardner Concert Hall. In closing, I would be remiss if I didn't take this opportunity to thank Dr. Kimberly Councill, Director of the School of Music, for her tireless support of the opera program and its amazing students. Without her belief in the power of music to tell transformative stories, none of this would be possible. Also, I would like to recognize Dr. Robert Baldwin and to thank him for sharing his time, effort, and expertise with our program. Our students are better musicians and performers because of him. Now, I invite you to sit back and join us as we share this timeless story of family, first love, and the courage to dream bigger than you dare.
— James Bobick, Stage Director
THE TENDER LAND PRODUCTION TEAM
Conductor MICHAIL TRACHALIOS
Stage Director JAMES BOBICK
Choreographer MELISSA BOBICK
Stage Manager SKYLER LEMELLE
Scenic and Properties Design JAMES BOBICK
Costume Design ROBIN FARNSLEY-BECKER
Lighting Design SKYLER LEMELLE
Costume Design Consultant ROXANNE BECKER
1st Assistant Stage Manager TONY TRUNNELL
2nd Assistant Stage Manager BLAKE NELSON
Production Mentor AMBER BIELINSKI
Production Manager AUBREY ADAMS-MCMILLAN
Musical Preparation CAROL ANDERSON
Rehearsal Pianist
MIRIAM MEDLEY
Dance Captain KATIE MANSFIELD
Producer and Director KIMBERLY COUNCILL of the School of Music
Visiting Assistant Professor (Opera) JAMES BOBICK
Assistant Director of Opera
AUBREY ADAMS-MCMILLAN
Graduate Teaching Assistant, Opera ALEX HARRELSON
Social Media Coordinator, U Opera KARLEY SWALLOW
Special Thanks ROBERT BALDWIN
CAROL ANDERSON
RANDY PAYNE
BRODEE RIPPLE
ORCHESTRA
Flute
David Pennington Bennett
Clarinet Noah Wright
Bassoon
Braxton Topham
Piano
Miriam Medley
Violin I
Kristen Olson*
Adlyn Bouck
Violin II
Melanie Amanda Hansen
Sarah Kelly
Viola
Tobias Roth
Myalee Smith
Cello
Lydia Mitchell
Eden Wilson
Bass Megan Hall
Conductor
Michail Trachalios
*Concertmaster
CAST
CHARACTER
Laurie Moss
Martin
Top
Ma Moss
Grandpa Moss
Beth Moss
Mr. Splinters
Mrs. Splinters
Mr. Jenks
Mrs. Jenks
1st Man
2nd Man
Young Guest
OPENING CAST 11/22
Emily Hubert
David Silvano
Porter Hiatt
Cynthia Harris
Nelson LeDuc
Sarah Pierce
Alex Harrelson
Dawn Marie Wells
Giovanni Nuvan
Zekun Huang
Dorian Dillon
Ricky Cornejo
Emelia Hartford
CLOSING CAST 11/23
Caitlin Corbett
Alex Harrelson
Akshay Ghiya
Kim Fairbourn
Nelson LeDuc
MaryBeth Groth
Junjie Wang
Abby Payne
Caleb Booth
Sarah Mair
Dorian Dillon
Caleb Gordon
Kristen Fairbourn
COVERS
Emily Benson Giovanni Nuvan
Caleb Booth
CAST BIOS
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 Julie Wright-Costa, Robert Breault, Sondra Kelly, and Angela Gooch, as well as accomplished vocal coaches Kyle Swann, Lynn Kao, Samuel Martin, and Mac Merchant. She has collaborated with directors Matthew Ferraro, Jillian Foley, and Sondra Kelly. Her work with conductors Doris Lang Kosloff and Lynn Kao have greatly enriched her performances.
Sarah Pierce is the student of Professor Julie WrightCosta, and she is a Junior in the Bachelors of Music: Vocal Performance program at The University of Utah (the U). Sarah as last seen in Die Fledermaus as Frosch. Sarah has been seen in many of the U’s shows over the years including as Charity Woman, Soprano Soloist, Frosch, and chorus. Sarah has performed in ensembles all across the United States and the world including The U’s Chamber Choir with whom she recently performed with all over Italy. Sarah is still new to the opera performance world, but she is happy to be there to learn from so many talented musicians and performers at the U.
Sarah Mair, soprano, is known for her emotional depth and compelling storytelling on stage. She has organized and performed a variety of solo recitals, including her most recent program, ’Tis the Season for Music, at the historic St. George Tabernacle. In 2021, Sarah originated and recorded the role of The Mystic in The Death of Schoenberg, an original operetta composed by Elena Winell. Her passion for community engagement has led her to perform in meaningful projects such as El Mesías, the only fully Spanish-language adaptation of Handel’s Messiah, and Why We Sing, a collaboration with a homeless women’s choir centered on themes of empowerment and resilience. During her time at the Boston Conservatory
at Berklee, Sarah was a featured soloist in more than 50 recitals and concert series and earned her Bachelor of Music and Alexander Technique Teacher Certification alongside her performances. Sarah is currently pursuing her Master of Music in Voice Performance and Pedagogy at the University of Utah, where she continues to pursue her passion for performance and classical music.
Rocio Valle is an accomplished opera singer and student. Originally from Delicias, Chihuahua, she began her vocal training as a church choir member and later earned a degree in vocal performance in Ciudad Juárez, 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, Deborah Voigt, Jesús Suaste, and Judith Natalucci. Some of Rocio's most notable performances include Suor Dolcina in Suor Angelica, Frida 1 in "El último sueño de Frida y Diego," and as a Soloist in the Opera To Go concert series with Opera Omaha. In January 2025, she performed Frasquita with Carmen Inside Out at the University of Utah. Rocio is pursuing an MM in Vocal Performance under the vocal instruction of Professor Kirstin Chávez.
Ricky Cornejo is a sophomore tenor pursuing a BM in Vocal performance at the University of Utah. Studying with Professor James Bobick, 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. He has also performed Carmina Burana at Abravanel Hall as a member of the A cappella choir.
R. Porter Hiatt, baritone, is thrilled to be singing for UofU Opera this year. Porter is working towards a BA in vocal performance at the University of Utah, studying under Seth Keeton and James Bobick. He has performed professionally in various operas, musicals, operettas, and straight plays. Some of his favorite past credits include The Pirate King in The Pirates of Penzance, The Usher in Trial By Jury, King Melchior in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Sir John Tremayne in Me and My Girl, and Schaunard in La Bohème. In addition to performing his work on the stage,
Porter also loves performing concert works. A few past experiences include the Baritone Solo in Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem and Bass Solist in Handel's Messiah.
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, Simone in Gianni Schicchi, Benoit and Alcindoro in La Bohême, 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, Raimondo in Lucia di Lammermoor, and Frank in Die Fledermaus. 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, a piece for string quartet, and a piece for Pierrot ensemble, inspired by the Sylvia Plath poem Cinderella.
Natalia Turchin Champagne is a Moldovan soprano celebrated for her vocal agility, emotional depth, and dynamic stage presence. Trained internationally (M.M., Southeastern Louisiana University; Specialist Diploma, St. Petersburg State Conservatory), she excels in repertoire from bel canto to contemporary opera. Recent highlights include Adele ("Die Fledermaus" by Strauss), Alice in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., Babbitt's electronic work "Philomel", and Elvira (Rossini's "L’Italiana in Algeri" in Italy). A 2024 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competon participant, she has won top prizes in Romania and performed with orchestras and in recitals across Europe and the United States. Fluent in three languages, Natalia loves preparing new roles and working on new projects.
Nahal Falahatimarvast is a fourth-year BM student studying under Professors Kirstin Chávez and James Bobick at the University of Utah. Born in Tehran, Iran, she came to the United States in 2022 to pursue her dream of being a professional opera singer. In her free time she enjoys movies, horseback riding, cooking, and spending time with her husband Erfan.
MaryBeth Groth is a soprano from northern Florida currently studying under Dr. Carol Ann Allred at the University of Utah. She has had the honor of appearing in several operatic productions, singing roles such as Hebe HMS Pinafore, and La Novizia, Suor Angelica, sections of Don Giovonni and Don Pasquale as Zerlina and Norina with American West Symphony and U Opera. In January 2023, she made her professional debut singing in Utah Symphony and Utah Opera’s production of Orff’s Carmina Burana. MaryBeth sang in the world orchestral premiere of Amy Scurria’s new opera
A.L.I.C.E. She most recently appeared as Ida in U Opera’s Die Fledermaus in February. This past July, she performed at the Teton Valley Chamber Music Festival in concert.
Kristen Fairbourn has been passionate about singing from a young age, growing up in choirs and performing in school musicals and community theater. She began formal vocal studies at Utah State University, and now continues her training at the University of Utah. Her recent performances include the role of Diana in Orpheus in the Underworld at Utah State and the chorus of Amahl and the Night Visitors with the Next Ensemble Performing Company. Grateful for every opportunity to share her voice, Kristen hones her craft through study, stage experience, and collaboration, committed to storytelling through opera and musical theatre.
Kayley Brinkerhoff, soprano, is currently a Sophomore in the University of Utah’s Vocal Performance program. She has the pleasure of studying under Professor Kirsten Chavez. Kayley is also a member of the University of Utah’s Chamber Choir and a recipient of the generous Ellen Nelson Barnes Endowed Choir Scholarship. After six years of classical voice training Kayley has developed an extensive repertoire spanning many different styles. She is thrilled to be working with so many talented performers in her first operas. Kayley is immensely thankful for all the people in her life supporting her and the joy music and collaboration brings.
Katie Mansfield 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 an 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 and Gretel, The Magic Flute, Così fan Tutte, Amahl and the Night Visitors, and Rigoletto Katie is very grateful to be performing again this season with the University of Utah.
Junjie Wang, tenor, earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the School of Arts at Shandong University in China. In 2023, he began pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Utah, studying with Seth Keeton and James Bobick. Over the past two years, he has actively participated in numerous U Opera productions, performing a variety of roles.
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.
Erika Smith has been singing since she could talk and is so excited to be back on The University of Utah stage! Her previous role at the U was Pallade in Monteverdi’s L’incoronazione di Poppea, and chorus in Floyd’s Susannah. She has spent time with The Salt Lake Children’s Theater in Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse, and Murray Amphitheater as Cinderella. Erika is currently working on her Master's Degree in Performance and Pedagogy, has been teaching voice lessons for 18 years, is a fitness coach at VASA Fitness, and has the best husband and three kids in the world.
Emily Hubert is enthusiastic to share with you the 2025-26 season of Opera at the University of Utah through the work that she and her colleagues have put in. Previously, she has been in Donizetti‘s L‘elisir d‘amore as Gianetta, as well as the chorus of Riders to the Sea by Vaughan Williams. Emily hopes you open yourself to the complex beauty of our shows as you enter the world of the characters. Emily is currently pursuing a Master of Vocal Performance degree at the University of Utah, where she is studying under the direction of Dr. Carol Ann Allred. She was most recently seen as Nora in Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Riders to the Sea and her most recent role through the University of Utah was the titular character in the 2024 production of Amahl and the Night Visitors. She also participated in the chorus of Die Fledermaus and La bohème at the University of Utah. Emily graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance from Southern Utah University in 2024. She made her operatic debut as Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi. During her time at SUU she was also seen as a Novice in Suor Angelica, Zelda aged 18 in The Ghosts of Gatsby, and sang the role of Micaëla in the 2024 production of Carmen. In the fall of 2023, Emily won and performed in the Music Masterworks Concerto Competition at SUU. She was honored to be the featured soprano soloist in the Rossini Stabat Mater masterwork through SUU Symphony Orchestra and Choir. In her free time, Emily can be found listening to opera, reading Don Quixote, or playing with her pet chickens.
Emelia Hartford is a recent transfer to the University of Utah. Hailing from Seattle, she moved to Utah to pursue a BA in Music and a BS in Games. Her most recent roles have been Helena in A Midsummer’s Night’s Dream and Rosie in Mamma Mia.
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.
Dorian Dillon is a Junior at the U. She is ecstatic to perform for another season with UOpera. Most recently, Dorian performed as the Customs-House Officer in UOpera’s production of La bohème (2025) and Ivan in UOpera’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 Professor Julie WrightCosta, as well as classical trombone under Dr. Donn Schaefer 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 a performing arts life, 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). Many thanks to parents, siblings, and pets for the encouragement to start and continue performing and making music, including all the emotional support along the way!
Dawn Marie Wells is a soprano pursuing a degree in 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.
David Silvano is a Peruvian-American tenor with a powerful, yet vibrant and flexible voice and a natural talent for acting. Mr. Silvano recently made his role debut as The Duke in Verdi’s Rigoletto with Mobile Opera and has performed for a variety of events with Park City Opera in Utah. Mr. Silvano has performed in roles such as Don José in Carmen, Martin in Copland's The Tender Land, Ferrando in Così fan tutte, and excerpts as Rodolfo in La Bohème, and Pinkerton in Madama Butterfly. In the Summer of 2022, he sang the role of Theodore Billings in the staged premiere of Clint Borzoni's The Copper Queen with Marble City Opera where he was praised by Arts Knoxville for bringing "a deliciously romantic lyrical side" to the character. In addition, he has performed as a soloist in various concert works. During the 2023 season, Mr. Silvano was a Resident Artist at Indianapolis Opera, where he covered the role of Don José and sang the role of El Remendado in Carmen. Mr. Silvano holds a BM from Colorado Mesa University, a MM from Colorado State University, and is pursuing a DMA at the University of Utah.
Cynthia Harris is a dynamic mezzo-soprano based in Salt Lake City, where she is completing a Master of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. Carrying the spirit of Detroit and Atlanta, her classical training began at Spelman College and continues to blossom on the operatic stage. Known for her rich vocal color and expressive artistry, she has brought to life a wide range of roles including The Duchess in A.L.I.C.E. by Amy Scurria, Aphrodite in Protectress by Jessica Rudman and Kendra Preston Leonard, Mrs. Cratchit in A Christmas Carol by Michael Leavitt and Anthony Buck, La Badessa in Puccini’s Suor Angelica, and most recently Dame Quickly in Verdi’s Falstaff in her debut with Lyrical Opera Theater. She has also premiered contemporary works in Chicago and Atlanta and currently performs with both U Opera and the choir of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
Chantel Evans is in her second year of the Vocal Performance and Pedagogy Master’s program at the University of Utah and is thrilled to be on stage with U Opera for the first time. Chantel has performed in several roles in the Opera Scenes shows at Brigham Young University - Idaho, where she completed her undergraduate studies. During these programs Chantel has had the opportunity to perform in scenes as Marenka from Smetena’s The Bartered Bride and Susannah from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. Chantel also performed the role of Miss Pinkerton in BYU - Idaho Theater’s production of Menotti’s The Old Maid and the Thief.
Originally from North Carolina, tenor Alex
Harrelson is pursuing a DMA at the University of Utah. Recent operatic roles at the U include Rodolfo in La bohème, Rinuccio in Gianni Schicchi, King Kaspar in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Ferrando in scenes from Cosi fan tutte, and leading roles in new operas
A.L.I.C.E. by Amy Scurria and A Christmas Carol by Leavitt and Buck. With Lyrical Opera Theater he has performed as Fenton in Falstaff, El Remendado in Carmen, and as Count Almaviva in Il barbiere di Siviglia. Alex’s recent non-operatic performances include Messiah with Nebo Holiday Chorus and Orchestra and several ambitious recitals featuring Wolf’s Italienisches Liederbuch and Schubert’s Die schöne Müllerin. Alex recently directed a production of Vaughan Williams’ opera Riders to the Sea. He regularly teaches classes on vocal classical music with Osher Lifelong Learning and sings with the Cathedral of the Madeleine.
Akshay Ghiya is a lyric baritone pursuing a Master’s degree in Vocal Performance at the University of Utah. With a warm and captivating voice, he has brought many roles to life on stage, including Gianni Schicchi in Puccini’s Gianni Schicchi, Marcello in Puccini’s La bohème, Sergeant Belcore in Donizetti’s L’elisir d’amore, and many more. Akshay currently serves as the Baritone Teaching Assistant at the U, performing with the Graduate Vocal Quartet and teaching voice lessons, and he is currently a student of Professor James Bobick.
Casey Morris is a vocal artist from Hockessin, Delaware, who has been praised for her intentional performances and the sweet color of her voice. Casey’s most recent role was Musetta in La Bohème (University of Utah Opera Theatre). Previously, she premiered the role of Calypso in the first staged production of Penelope and the Geese, later traveling to Greece to perform the role with composer Milica Paranosic and librettist Cheri Magid. Notable previous performances include debuting as Vitellia in La clemenza di Tito (University of Delaware Lyric Theatre), and Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Chicago Summer Opera). Concert performances include singing as the soprano soloist for a quartet version of Gustav Holst’s Christmas Day (Salt Lake Symphony) and participation in a recital for the Chicana Art Song Project (University of Delaware). Casey holds an M.M. in vocal performance from the University of Delaware, and currently studies under acclaimed mezzosoprano, Kirstin Chávez at the University of Utah.
Caleb Booth, baritone, is a third-year Choral Education and Mandarin Chinese double major, singing in his third and fourth shows at the U this season. At just 21 years old, Booth has exceptional vocal and instrumental abilities, with credit to his mother, Jennette Booth, for instilling his training in both facets. He studies as a classical baritone under Aubrey Adams-McMillan. Across his 15+ years of piano training, Caleb has served as a pianist for his former high school choir, as well as for Voci Altissime. 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, the University of Utah Chamber Choir, and the choirs at the Cathedral of the Madeleine. He would like to thank his friends and family for supporting his musical journey.
Aeryn Cousineau is a sophomore in the University of Utah’s Vocal Performance undergraduate class. She was most recently seen in Kensington’s production of The Phantom of the Opera as the Confidant. She would like to thank her mom for always being in the audience no matter what, and she would like to thank her father for crying at all her performances.
Abby Payne is thrilled to be in this production. Most recently, Abby has performed as Glinda in The Wizard of Oz, Charlotte in Cinderella, Miss Watson in Big River, Humpty Dumpty in Shrek, the Minstrel in Once Upon a Mattress, Lily Craven in Secret Garden, and Cosette in Les Misérables. When not at the university, Abby performs with the Utah Symphony Chorus and the Utah Chamber Artists. Abby is so grateful for those who've supported her, especially her loving husband Kraig, the production team, and her parents.
Caitlin Corbett is very excited and grateful to participate in the UOpera this season. This is the third opera production she has been part of, with most of her background being in choral singing. She participated in both the Die Fledermaus and La Bohème chorus during the UOpera 2024-25 season. She has been a participant in madrigals at East High School and in the University of Utah Chamber Choir under Dr. Barlow Bradford and Dr. Eric Schmidt, though she is very excited to take on opera. She has participated in NATS while taking lessons from Rebecca Glade, getting second and third place for two years in 2019 and 2020 in the musical theater and classical divisions. This will be her second semester studying voice lessons under Julie Wright-Costa. She started voice lessons as a freshman in high school and continued at Utah State, her freshman year and as a transfer student at the University of Utah. She has two more years at the University of Utah having finished her bachelors in psychology, and is now finishing her bachelors of music. She has developed a love for opera over the past year participating in the University of Utah’s opera. She has participated in the most recent production of Beethoven's Ode to Joy, in Jackson Hole, Wyoming for the Grand Teton Music Festival, as a chorus member. She enjoys painting, singing, reading, photography, and spending time with friends and family.
Caleb Gordon is excited to be a part of the Opera season at the University of Utah School of Music for his second year! Last season, he was seen as The Page in Amahl and the Night Visitors, Chorus in Die Fledermaus, and The Sergeant in La bohème. Other favorite credits include Bass Caroler in A Christmas Carol in 2022 and 2025 (HCTO/The Ruth), Count Leopold in Anastasia: The Musical (Draper Historic Theatre), Ensemble in Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (The Grand Theatre), and a Swing in The Drowsy Chaperone (The Grand Theatre).
Emily Benson is currently pursuing a Master of Vocal Performance degree at the University of Utah, where she is studying under the direction of Dr. Carol Ann Allred. She was most recently seen as Nora in Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Riders to the Sea and her most recent role through the University of Utah was the titular character in the 2024 production of Amahl and the Night Visitors. She also participated in the chorus of Die Fledermaus and La bohème at the University of Utah. Emily graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance from Southern Utah University in 2024. She made her operatic debut as Lauretta in Gianni Schicchi. During her time at SUU she was also seen as a Novice in Suor Angelica, Zelda aged 18 in The Ghosts of Gatsby, and sang the role of Micaëla in the 2024 production of Carmen. In the fall of 2023, Emily won and performed in the Music Masterworks Concerto Competition at SUU. She was honored to be the featured soprano soloist in the Rossini Stabat Mater masterwork through SUU Symphony Orchestra and Choir. In her free time, Emily can be found listening to opera, reading Don Quixote, or playing with her pet chickens.
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 second year of the vocal performance and pedagogy masters program at the U. She has loved the performing opportunities that the program has provided. She has been teaching voice and piano for over 30 years in her private studio 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.
PRODUCTION BIOS
Blake Nelson (2nd ASM) (He/They/She) Blake is a sophomore in the Stage Management Program here at the University of Utah and is thrilled to work with the School of Music. Some past credits include Charting Neverland (PA), Spring Awakening (Deck Crew) at the UofU, and Tuck Everlasting, The Sound of Music, and A Christmas Story (Crew Swing) at CenterPoint Theatre. Much love to Mom, Dad, Connor, Mai, and all those who helped me get here. @thatautistictheatrekid
Aubrey Adams-McMillan serves as the Assistant Director of Opera and Associate Instructor of Voice at the University of Utah, where she is thrilled to bring her creative vision, technical expertise, and passion for mentoring artists. A distinguished mezzo-soprano, she has captivated audiences in roles ranging from the searing Madame de Croissy in Dialogues des Carmélites to the comedic Bertha in Il barbiere di Siviglia, with performances at Utah Opera, Central City Opera, and the Spoleto Festival USA. Her concert work—including Verdi’s Requiem, Mahler’s Symphony No. 2, and Dvořák’s Stabat Mater— showcases her artistry across both grand and intimate musical settings.
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 renowned cellist Zuil Bailley, among others. He also worked as an assistant conductor of Mro. Thomas Sanderling, Mro. Phillipe Forget and Mro. Michalis Economou for productions with MOYSA, 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 Symphony Orchestra, the National Greek Radio Symphony Orchestra, the Thessaloniki State Symphony Orchestra, the Thessaloniki Symphony Orchestra, the Athens Symphony Orchestra, the Utah Philharmonia, the University of Utah Campus Symphony Orchestra, the Taylorsville Symphony Orchestra, the UWM Symphony Orchestra, the Cascais and Oeiras Chamber Orchestra, and the Camerata Junior. He studied music composition at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and did his master’s in conducting at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. 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.
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 heartbreaking 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”!
Baritone James Bobick has enjoyed 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 a Primetime Emmy-winning broadcast of La Bohème. He 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 can also be heard as Howard on the on the Grammy-nominated original cast recording of David T. Little’s Dog Days. In addition to his work in the standard operatic repertoire, Mr. Bobick has extensive experience performing the new works of contemporary composers. He has bowed as Bendrix in Heggie’s End of the Affair, Kinesias in Adamo’s Lysistrata, Dr. Bloom in Eaton’s micro-tonal opera Pumped Fiction, Donald Giovanni in Schickele’s The Abduction of Figaro, and as Howard in David T. Little’s critically acclaimed Dog Days. Mr. Bobick has also performed contemporary works while in concert and on recording. These works have included leading roles in Manno’s Dylan and Caitlin, Aldrich’s Elmer Gantry, Eaton’s The Rev. Jim Jones, Garfein’s Rosenkrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, Geller’s Where Silence Reigns, Colantti's The Selfish Giant, Patterson’s A Child Possessed, Marks’ Bluetooth Islands, Cervetti’s Elegy for a Prince and Yum!, Dellaira's The Death of Webern, Little’s Soldier Songs, and Ted Hearne’s Katrina Ballads. 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. He has performed at Avery Fisher (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. Internationally, he has performed as a soloist in Messiah in Prague with the Prague Symphony; Carmina Burana and Messiah in San José, Costa Rica with the National Symphony; Fauré’s Requiem in Paris, Reims, and Chartres with the Orchestre Pasdeloup; and Fauré’s Tu es Petrus during Mass in Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris. Around the United States, Mr. Bobick’s performances have included Carmina Burana, Brahms’ Ein Deutsches Requiem, Mozart’s Requiem, Bach’s Magnificat and Mass in B minor, Handel’s Israel in Egypt, Messiah, and Saul, Haydn’s Die Schöpfung and Lord Nelson Mass, Bartók’s Bluebeard’s Castle, Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem, Fantasia on Christmas Carols, Five Mystical Songs, and Songs of Travel, Prokofiev’s Lieutenant Kijé, Mahler’s Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, and Paul McCartney’s Liverpool Oratorio
Miriam Medley is a multi-instrumentalist whose collaborative journey has been shaped by a proclivity for open exploration, voracious curiosity, and omnidimensional creativity. With an abiding affinity for music, she began her multi-faceted journey as a young artist, engaging in solo and ensemble performing from an early age. During her undergraduate program in piano performance, Miriam embraced collaboration by participating in myriad opportunities: period ensembles, chamber groups, pit orchestras, the university symphony, experimental music organizations, and interdisciplinary projects. In the years since, Miriam has enjoyed performing with orchestras, chamber ensembles, and soloists across Utah and Wyoming. She has taken pride in opportunities that involve the education of young musicians and the augmentation of their musical experiences. Life has deepened her appreciation for education and enhanced her collaborative spirit. Today, Miriam is pursuing a graduate degree in collaborative piano, powered by her belief in music’s power to unite, dissolve boundaries, and create collectively transcendent experiences.
Skyler LeMelle (Stage Manager & Lighting Designer) Skyler is a Senior in the Stage Management program. He started his Theatre career at Juan Diego High School as a Lighting Designer and Sound Technician, which eventually led him into Stage Management. Past credits include: You On The Moors Now (Lighting Designer), The Verge (SM), Footloose (SM), ALICE: U of U Opera (ASM), The Lightning Thief (ASM) Guys And Dolls (ASM). He would like to thank his family and friends for their love and support, without them he would not have been able to pursue the things he loves.
Tony Trunnell is currently a Jr. in the ATP and SM program here in the U's DOT. He is honored to help such wonderfully skilled singers and musicians to show their gifts onstage, and hopes you enjoy the show!