& HOLIDAY FAVORITES including works by Finzi, Holst, and Handel, and a ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ Sing-Along
December 5–7, 2024 | The Grand Theatre with The Salt Lake Symphony
DIRECTOR NOTES
Good evening and thank you for coming to U Opera’s annual Holiday Production at The Grand Theatre. It is exciting to think that 2024 marks the 30th year that U Opera, under the careful stewardship of both Dr. Robert Breault and Dr. Kimberly Councill, has performed Menotti’s Amahl and the Night Visitors to joyful applause across the greater Salt Lake City area. For us, this is more than just a tradition, it is an opportunity to share this wonderful time of year through great music. We hope you will enjoy the masterpieces that we have chosen to share with you.
This year, in addition to Amahl and the Night Visitors, we will be performing Christmas Day by Gustav Holst, In Terra Pax by Gerald Finzi, and selections from Messiah by G. F. Handel. Gustav Holst gave Christmas Day the subtitle ‘a choral fantasy on old carols.’ Written in 1910, Holst manages to capture the spirit of the season through the interweaving of familiar holiday melodies to create a unique narrative for the season. Following Christmas Day, you will hear a lesser-known work by Gerald Finzi. In Terra Pax tells the holiday story from the perspective of a young man walking across the English countryside in winter. Written in 1954, it is a true masterpiece of symphonic choral literature. Finally, we will offer four arias and a chorus from Handel’s Messiah. Each of the arias, from the Christmas section of the enormously popular 1741 oratorio, will feature a different soloist. These arias by the tenor, baritone, mezzo soprano, and soprano are sure to thrill as you listen to Handel’s amazing talent for fusing melody, text, and the voice.
For our final chorus, we would love to have your help to close our holiday program. After all the singers have returned to the stage, we will lead you, the audience, in a sing-along of the ‘Hallelujah Chorus.’ The words and music for this incredibly famous selection can be found at the end of your digital program. So, please feel free to stand and sing your way into the season.
Whether these works are some of your favorites or new to you this year, we hope that each one will speak to you of the holiday in a way that you will never forget. So, please join our singers from the University of Utah School of Music, dancers from the School of Dance, the orchestra members of the Salt Lake Symphony, and our conductors Oswaldo Machado and Dr. Robert Baldwin as we share this great music of the season with you.
— James Bobick, Stage Director
AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS & HOLIDAY FAVORITES
Conductor ROBERT BALDWIN
Conductor OSWALDO MACHADO
Stage Director JAMES BOBICK
Choreographer MELISSA BOBICK
Technical Director HALEE RASMUSSEN
Stage Manager HANNA RICHARDS
Stage Manager ANNA BIRCH
Scenic Design HALEE RASMUSSEN
Properties Design ARIKA SCHOCKMEL
Lighting Design SETH MILLER
Costume Design ROBIN FARNSLEY-BECKER
Assistant Stage Manager IO CARLING
Stage Management Mentor AMBER BIELINSKI
Production Manager JAMES BOBICK
Musical Preparation LAUREN TIAN
Rehearsal Pianist YUE WANG
Producer and Director of the School of Music KIMBERLY COUNCILL
Director of Opera, University of Utah ROBERT BREAULT
Associate Director of Opera, University of Utah JAMES BOBICK
Graduate Teaching Assistant, Opera ALEX HARRELSON
Social Media Coordinator, U Opera KARLEY SWALLOW
THE SALT LAKE SYMPHONY
Flute
Nancy Toone
Oboe
Hilary Coon
Charlotte Bell
Clarinet
Cheryl Blackley
Bassoon
Jane Pugmire
Trumpet
Michael Sullivan
Horn
Jim Yehle
Percussion
Aidan Smith
Drew Fallon
Joshua Canul
Harp
Addison Line
Piano Mitchell Giambalvo
Violin I
Elizabeth Palmer
Marian Florence
Serenity Eyre
Violin II
Mary Anne Peterson
JoAnn Larsen
Ashley Wilkinson
Viola
Brianna Allen
Alexandra Hurst
Cello
Andrew Clement
Marty McMillan
Bass
Denson Angulo
Conductors
Robert Baldwin
Oswaldo Machado
CAST –DECEMBER 5 – 7:30 PM
AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS – Gian Carlo Menotti
Amahl – Emily Benson
The Mother – Katie Munson
King Kaspar – Will Tepner
King Melchior – Mike Murray
King Balthazar – Nelson LeDuc
The Page – Caleb Gordon
Featured Dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured Dancer – Jasmine Parente
CHRISTMAS DAY – Gustav Holst
Soprano soloist – Casey Morris
Alto soloist – Sage Madsen
Tenor soloist – Alex Harrelson
Baritone soloist – Akshay Ghiya
Featured dancer – Caitlyn Camchong
Featured dancer – Clea Mathieu
Featured dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured dancer – Jasmine Parente
IN TERRA PAX – Gerald Finzi
Sopranos – Anna Roelofs and Sarah Pierce
Altos – Karley Swallow and Kim Fairbourn
Tenors – Sam Plumb and Will Tepner
Baritones – Porter Hiatt and Akshay Ghiya
MESSIAH – George Frideric Handel
‘Comfort ye…Ev’ry valley’ – Junjie Wang
‘Thus saith the Lord…But who may abide’ – Porter Hiatt
‘Behold!...O thou that tellest good tidings’ – Kim Fairbourn
‘Rejoice greatly! O daughters of Zion’ – Nahal Fatahatimarvast
CAST –DECEMBER 6 – 7:30 PM
AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS – Gian Carlo Menotti
Amahl – Audrey Johnson
The Mother – Aubrey Adams-McMillan
King Kaspar – Junjie Wang
King Melchior – Akshay Ghiya
King Balthazar – Nelson LeDuc
The Page – Caleb Gordon
Featured Dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured Dancer – Jasmine Parente
CHRISTMAS DAY – Gustav Holst
Soprano soloist – Natalie Champagne
Alto soloist – Sage Madsen
Tenor soloist – Sam Plumb
Baritone soloist – Caleb Gordon
Featured dancer – Caitlyn Camchong
Featured dancer – Clea Mathieu
Featured dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured dancer – Jasmine Parente
IN TERRA PAX – Gerald Finzi
Sopranos – Rocio Valle Lucero and Theresa Fassler
Altos – Karley Swallow and Sage Madsen
Tenors – Sam Plumb and Will Tepner
Baritones – Porter Hiatt and Akshay Ghiya
MESSIAH – George Frideric Handel
‘Comfort ye…Ev’ry valley’ – Alex Harrelson
‘Thus saith the Lord…But who may abide’ – Mike Murray
‘Behold!...O thou that tellest good tidings’ – Meggie Vincent
‘Rejoice greatly! O daughters of Zion’ – Shichun Wang
–DECEMBER 7 – 2 PM
AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS – Gian Carlo Menotti
Amahl – Emily Benson
The Mother – Katie Munson
King Kaspar – Will Tepner
King Melchior – Mike Murray
King Balthazar – Nelson LeDuc
The Page – Caleb Gordon
Featured Dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured Dancer – Jasmine Parente
CHRISTMAS DAY – Gustav Holst
Soprano soloist – Casey Morris
Alto soloist – Katie Munson
Tenor soloist – Alex Harrelson
Baritone soloist – Akshay Ghiya
Featured dancer – Caitlyn Camchong
Featured dancer – Clea Mathieu
Featured dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured dancer – Jasmine Parente
IN TERRA PAX – Gerald Finzi
Sopranos – Anna Roelofs and Sarah Pierce
Altos – Karley Swallow and Kim Fairbourn
Tenors – Sam Plumb and Will Tepner
Baritones – Porter Hiatt and Akshay Ghiya
MESSIAH – George Frideric Handel
‘Comfort ye…Ev’ry valley’ – Junjie Wang
‘Thus saith the Lord…But who may abide’ – Porter Hiatt
‘Behold!...O thou that tellest good tidings’ – Kim Fairbourn
‘Rejoice greatly! O daughters of Zion’ – Nahal Fatahatimarvast
CAST –DECEMBER 7 – 7:30 PM
AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS – Gian Carlo Menotti
Amahl – Audrey Johnson
The Mother – Aubrey Adams-McMillan
King Kaspar – Junjie Wang
King Melchior – Akshay Ghiya
King Balthazar – Nelson LeDuc
The Page – Caleb Gordon
Featured Dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured Dancer – Jasmine Parente
CHRISTMAS DAY – Gustav Holst
Soprano soloist – Natalie Champagne
Alto soloist – Sage Madsen
Tenor soloist – Sam Plumb
Baritone soloist – Caleb Gordon
Featured dancer – Caitlyn Camchong
Featured dancer – Clea Mathieu
Featured dancer – Sophie O’Brien
Featured dancer – Jasmine Parente
IN TERRA PAX – Gerald Finzi
Sopranos – Rocio Valle Lucero and Theresa Fassler
Altos – Karley Swallow and Sage Madsen
Tenors – Sam Plumb and Will Tepner
Baritones – Porter Hiatt and Akshay Ghiya
MESSIAH – George Frideric Handel
‘Comfort ye…Ev’ry valley’ – Alex Harrelson
‘Thus saith the Lord…But who may abide’ – Mike Murray
‘Behold!...O thou that tellest good tidings’ – Meggie Vincent
‘Rejoice greatly! O daughters of Zion’ – Shichun Wang
CAST BIOS
AUBREY ADAMS-MCMILLAN
Aubrey Adams-McMillan joined the voice faculty of Westminster College, SLC, in August of 2011. Hailed for her incredibly balanced voice, even tone and sensitive musicianship, Aubrey enjoys an active career singing Opera, music theater, chamber music, art song and symphonic works. Her love for music began young and she continues to explore repertoire that challenges her. She discovered her love for twentieth century music and collaborating with composers during her work with Claudio Abaddo and the New York philharmonic singing Schoenberg and Debussy. In her home of Salt Lake City, she performs with the prestigious Utah Symphony, Intermezzo, Utah Opera, Eutopia, Nova, The American Festival Chorus and Orchestra, Cathedral of the Madeleine concert series and Utah lyric Opera. Among the list of works Aubrey has performed: Sea Pictures, Barber of Seville, Mahler’s fourth symphony, Britten’s Noye’s Fludde, Man of La Mancha, St. Paulus, Rutter spirituals, Lucia Di Lammermoor, Handel Dixit Dominus, and Messiah. Mozart C Minor Mass, Requiem, La Clemenza di Titto, Marriage of Figaro, and Cosi fan Tutte. Aubrey has been a recipient of the Marion Anderson Scholarship at Westminster choir College, the Penrose Scholar at Central City Opera, and a two-time district finalist in the Metropolitan Opera competition and received the encouragement award. Aubrey also enjoys working with composers and singing new works. She was involved in the workshop of Ricky Ian Gordan’s Grapes of Wrath and has performed in Little Women by Mark Adamo at Central City and Utah opera. She debuted the Requiems of both Alfonso Tenriero, and Jeff Manookian. In addition to Aubrey’s busy performance career, Aubrey teaches and serves as President of the National Association of Teachers of Singing on the Northern Utah Chapter. As professor of voice at Westminster College, Aubrey has overseen the recitals of over thirty students and Is currently a Doctoral Student at the University of Utah, with a fullscholarship T A position. Her research interests include neuroscience and the growing understanding of the pathways developed through music performance practice, as well as the historically informed performance of Baroque music. She produced her first crossover album, Beautiful Dreamer, in 2021 which can be found on all streaming platforms worldwide.
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.
CAITLYN CAMCHONG
Born and raised in Central Florida, Caitlyn began her training at an early age in various styles including ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, and acro. She then went on to train at Central Florida Ballet, where she also joined their Studio Company. It is there that she fostered a love for teaching younger students. Caitlyn is currently a sophomore at the University of Utah pursuing degrees in Ballet and Biomedical Engineering. At Utah, she has performed in various new works and George Balanchine’s Serenade. 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 Woman,
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.
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.
THERESA FASSLER
Theresa is a senior in the theatre teaching program, pursuing minors in Chinese and vocal performance. Their previous U of U credits include Matilda, Jr. (Stagehand) at Kingsbury Hall, Somewhere: A Primer for the End of Days (Hair & Makeup), U Opera Performance (Soloist, Chorus Member), and A.L.I.C.E. (Tiger Lily, Card). They had the privilege of being in the U’s Voci Altissime for two years. Theresa would like to thank their parents and all their friends for their continual support as they pursue their degree and play around onstage.
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 FALAHATIMARVAST
Nahal Falahatimarvast is a third-year Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance major studying under, mezzo-soprano, Kirstin Chávez and, baritone, James Bobick at the University of Utah. Born in Tehran, Iran, Nahal came to the United States in 2022 pursuing the 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.
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.
THIA HARRIS she/her
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 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.
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 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
AUDREY JOHNSON
Audrey Johnson is a 20-year-old soprano at the University of Utah. She studies Vocal Performance under Carol Ann Allred. This is Audrey’s very first production, and she is beyond excited to be performing as Amahl in Amahl and the Night Visitors . Audrey also regularly performs with the University of Utah Chamber Choir.
NELSON 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.
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.
CLEA MATHIEU
Clea grew up in Southern Oregon, where she trained at Studio Roxander under the guidance of teachers David and Elyse Roxander from the age of 4 to 18. During her time at Studio Roxander, Clea performed in numerous productions of The Nutcracker, performing in various soloist and corps parts as well as the role of the Sugarplum Fairy. Additionally, she had the opportunity to perform in contemporary ballet works through performances in the studio’s Surealia productions. Currently, Clea is a sophomore in the Ballet BFA program at The University of Utah. During her time at the U, she has performed in a variety of innovative new works as well as established pieces by iconic choreographers, including a piece by José Limón and Balanchine’s timeless Serenade. Additionally, Clea is an active member of the Character Dance Ensemble, a club that learns cultural dances from various regions and travels abroad to exchange knowledge with dancers from other countries. Most recently, she participated in an exchange in Costa Rica, where she taught and took classes, and performed in some shows.
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 M. A. 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 sixmember vocal group. Led by Dr. Barlow Bradford and accompanied by the Honolulu Symphony, they performed at the Brigham Young University Hawaii 50-year 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.
SOPHIE O'BRIEN
Raised in South Bend, Indiana, Sophie spent the majority of her dance training at Southold Dance Theatre where she focused on ballet technique in a pre-professional setting. Currently a Junior at the University of Utah, Sophie is pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet with an emphasis in Performance and a minor in Strategic Communications. During her time at the U, Sophie has performed in a vast variety of works, ranging from more contemporary pieces by José Limón and Trey McIntyre, to classical works like George Balanchine’s Serenade. Last year, Sophie had the opportunity to dance in U Opera’s production of
A.L.I.C.E, and she is excited and eager to join U Opera once again! Each of these experiences have been integral in the development of Sophie’s dance career as she tenaciously continues to pursue ballet professionally.
JASMINE PARENTE
Raised in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, Jasmine Parente began her dance training at the Ballet Conservatory of Asheville under Angie Lyyn, Gavin Larsen, and Nadia Iozzo. She continued her studies in Florida at the prestigious HARID Conservatory receiving a full tuition scholarship, and training under renowned teachers Victoria Schneider, Alexey Kulpin, Meelis Pakri, and Svetlana Osiyeva. Currently a junior at The University of Utah School of Dance, Jasmine is pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet with an emphasis in performance. One of the highlights of her career was performing as a guest artist with Ballet Nacional Dominicano in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, where she danced as the Marzipan Soloist in The Nutcracker under the direction of Stephanie Bauger. At the University, Jasmine has taken on notable roles in classical ballets such as Coppélia, restaged by Tauna Hunter, Paquita restaged by Rex Tilton, and neo-classical ballets such as Ornaments choreographed by Suzanne Haag. Jasmine's journey as a dancer has been enriched by these diverse experiences, allowing her to grow as an artist and a performer. She remains dedicated to refining her craft and pursuing her passion for ballet professionally.
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.
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 asummer program prior to her next degree. Special thanks to Dr. Allred, Dr. Breault, Emily, and Julie for all they have done.
KARLEY SWALLOW
Karley Swallow, a 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 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 The Queen of Hearts in Amy Scurria’s A.L.I.C.E., La Zia Principessa (cover) in Suor Angelica, Zita in Gianni Schicchi, Buttercup in An Evening of Gilbert and Sullivan, and Mabel in Pirates of Penzance. Karley is a member of the University of Utah’s Chamber Choir and the Michie Undergraduate Quartet. She is the recipient of the University of Utah Flagship Scholarship and the Leroy Robertson Promising Student Scholarship.
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.
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.
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.
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 A.L.I.C.E..
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
Associate Director of Opera 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.
DR. 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.
OSWALDO MACHADO ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR
Oswaldo L. Machado hails from the New York Metro area, where he was raised and received his primary musical education, before moving to Utah to pursue an M.M. degree in Composition from Brigham Young University. Oswaldo is currently a first year D.M.A. student in Orchestral Conducting at the University of Utah, under the auspices of Dr. Robert Baldwin. There he serves as an assistant conductor and orchestra librarian with the University of Utah Philharmonia and University Campus Symphony Orchestra. A decorated composer and conductor, Oswaldo has been the recipient of numerous scholarships, assistantships and competition prizes acknowledging his work in both the fields of conducting and composition. These accolades include The Respighi Prize in orchestral conducting and The Barlow Composition Award: Student Edition. As an avid improviser on the piano, Oswaldo frequently performs in local venues in the Utah Valley area, where he resides with his wife and daughter.
MELISSA BOBICK
CHOREOGRAPHER
Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Melissa Bobick graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in ballet and nutrition from Indiana University in Bloomington and received her Master of Fine Arts degree in choreography from Purchase College Conservatory of Dance in New York. Melissa is also an ABT® Certified Teacher and earned the status of Affiliate Teacher while teaching in New York City. As a performer, Melissa danced with the Eugene Ballet Company and Ballet Idaho, where she was featured in many classical roles and numerous contemporary works. After moving to New York City, Melissa was chosen to dance for the National Choreographers Initiative and was one of four dancers engaged by New York City Opera for their new production of Massenet’s Cendrillon. As a choreographer, Melissa was commissioned to choreograph three new works for Ballet Idaho and Eugene Ballet and was named a Choreographic Development Resident at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She has also choreographed numerous original works for the University of Utah’s School of Dance. Melissa was twice named a finalist for McCallum Theatre’s Choreography Festival. She has shown work at the Detroit Dance City Festival as well as the Breaking Ground Festival in Tempe, Arizona. Recently, two of Melissa’s original works were restaged on Eugene Ballet and Ballet Project Orange County. Most recently, Melissa created a new work for Ballet Nacional Dominicano, the national ballet company of the Dominican Republic. Melissa is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Utah School of Dance.
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 Department of Theatre, and a resident set designer for The Grand Theatre. Other design credits include 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.
SETH MILLER
LIGHTING
DESIGNER
Seth started working in the Local 99 stagehands union, after which he attended the University of Utah for a degree in theatrical design. In 1997, he began working at Lagoon Amusement Park in the Entertainment Department as the Staff Lighting Designer before moving on to be the Technical Director at The Egyptian Theatre in Park City. He has worked as a freelance Lighting Designer for several local theatre companies and many events around the country, including Walt Disney World, Harley Davidson’s Annual National Dealer’s Convention, W5 Creative, and many others. Seth has been the Artistic/Executive Director for the past eleven seasons for the Grand Theatre in Salt Lake City.
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 nodetail- too-small quality and the knowledge that comfort is “key” to singing that supports the adage, “You are (can be) what you wear”!
ALEX HARRELSON
Alex Harrelson is a 24-year-old 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 performed Schubert’s Die Schöne Müllerin for his Master’s Recital. As a lover of lieder, he has also performed Schumann’s Dichterliebe and Beethoven’s An die ferne Geliebte. He looks forward to performing Wolf’s Italienisches Liederbuch in December. 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. Most recently he performed in Le Roman de Silence, a new opera by Anthony Buck. Alex regularly sings with the Cathedral of the Madeleine and in opera outreach within Salt Lake and Utah counties.
HANNA RICHARDS
Hanna Richards (Co- SM) Hanna is a junior in the Stage Management program at the University of Utah and is loving every minute of it! Some of her most recent work includes The Heart of Robin Hood (ASM), Into The Woods (ASM), Amahl and the Night Visitors/ A Christmas Carol (ASM), Town Hall (ASM), and As You Like It (PA).
ANNA BIRCH
Anna Birch is a senior in the Stage Management program here at the U. She is very excited to be on the team for Spring Awakening! Recently, Anna has worked as a Technician at Desert Star Playhouse running tech for their shows. Her recent experience include "Thais" at UtahOpera (Production Assistant) "Town Hall" (1st ASM), "Evil Dead: The Musical" (SM), "Twelfth Night: The Musical" (SM), "The Servant of Two Masters" (SM), and "As You Like It" (2nd ASM). Anna is excited about her upcoming production of "You On The Moors Now" as Stage Manager. Anna is very grateful for the continuing support of her family and friends.
IO CARLING
Io is a Sophomore in the U of U Stage Management program. Io’s credits include: Dancing at Lughnasa (PA, Studio 115), Drowsy Chaperone (Backstage crew, Grand Theater). Upcoming productions include: Xanadu (2nd ASM, Meldrum Theatre). Io is excited for their shows to come!
Hallelujah!
lu. jah!
