Union Avenue Opera To Present DIE LUSTIGE WITWE (THE MERRY WIDOW)

UAO WALKS ON THE LIGHTER SIDE WITH DIE LUSTIGE WITWE

Come join the party as Union Avenue Opera presents Franz Lehár's charming Die lustige Witwe (The Merry Widow), running July 31, August 1, 7, 8 and 9! Performed in its original and rarely heard German, there is little question why this delightful show, full of lavish parties, bumbling suitors and politicians, clandestine affairs and even a French can-can, is one of the most beloved operettas of all time.

When the wealthy widow Hanna Glawari is looking to remarry, the country of Pontevedro is desperate to keep her wealth close at hand. Baron Mirko Zeta tosses countless suitors her way, including her former lover, Count Danilo Danilovitsch. Will Hanna and Danilo be able to reconcile their love, and will Zeta be able to hold on to his own wife, the lovely Valencienne, as the French suitor Camille tries to steal her away? A cast of UAO favorites returns to tell the tale, including Sylvia Stoner as Hanna (Tatiana in 2003's Eugene Onegin), St. Louis native Ian Greenlaw as Danilo (Marcello in 2006's La Bohème), and frequent UAO artist Ann Hoyt as Valencienne. And if the inherent romance of the show is not enough, watch as Ann Hoyt plays opposite her real-life fiancé, Tommy Wazelle, as the dashing Camille, with their wedding only weeks away. UAO's directing/conducting team of Jolly Stewart and Scott Schoonover along with a talented supporting cast brings this whimsical romp and unforgettable music to the stage. Tickets are available now for $30-$52 and are going fast! Performances will be at 8 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m., at Union Avenue Opera, 733 Union Boulevard, 63108. For more information, call 314-361-2881 or visit www.unionavenueopera.org.

Union Avenue Opera was founded in 1994 from one man's vision for affordable, professional opera in St. Louis. Scott Schoonover set about building an opera company dedicated to offering a venue for gifted, emerging singers, musicians, directors and technicians, to be enjoyed by the breadth and diversity of the St. Louis region. UAO's growing success allowed for a 2006 capital campaign that resulted in a newly expanded stage and orchestra pit. Now in its 15th  season, UAO continues to pursue its mission with excellence and integrity, presenting affordable operas in original languages. Union Avenue Opera is proud to be an integral part of the St. Louis arts community. For more information about UAO and its programs, visit www.unionavenueopera.org.