Town Hall Theater Presents THIS IS MY STORY, THIS IS MY SONG 9/24

This Is My Story, This Is My Song brings two alumni of the Opera Company of Middlebury back to share the music that has meant the most to them during their careers.

"In this recital the singers will talk nearly as much as they sing," says OCM Artistic Director Douglas Anderson, "explaining how and when they encountered a certain song and how their feelings about the music changed as they got older, started families, and encountered setbacks and triumphs. Unlike most recitals, which can be stiff and formal, this will be extremely personal and moving."

Soprano Suzanne Kantorski Merrill returns to Middlebury after starring in two OCM productions, as Mimi in La Bohème (2008) and Leila in The Pearl Fishers (2010). She has been a finalist or winner of such prestigious competitions as the Metropolitan Opera National Council and the Licia Albanese-Puccini competition. The Vermont native is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music.

Baritone Andrew Cummings played Zurga in OCM's The Pearl Fishers, impressing audiences with his rich baritone and commanding stature. Now living in New York City, he has performed with the New York Lyric Opera Theater, Regina Opera, Natchez Opera, and Lake George Opera. He recently debuted in the title role of Rigoletto at Carnegie's Weill Hall.

A special reception is planned prior to the 8 pm recital. Ticket holders are invited to The Lodge at Otter Creek for wine and hors d'hoeuvres at 6 pm. The Lodge has been a longtime sponsor of the Opera Company of Middlebury.

This Is My Story, This Is My Song will be performed at Town Hall Theater on Saturday, September 24, at 8 pm. Tickets are $25, and may be purchased at www.townhalltheater.org, 802 382-9222, at the THT Box Office (Mon-Sat, noon-5 pm) and at the door, if available. The ticket includes the reception at The Lodge at Otter Creek, which begins at 6 pm.

PHOTO CAPTION: Soprano Suzanne Kantorski Merrill and baritone Andrew Cummings return to Middlebury for This Is My Story, This Is My Song, an evening of music that has meant the most to them during their careers. Tickets: www.townhalltheater.org, 802 382-9222, at the THT Box Office (Mon-Sat, noon-5 pm) and at the door.

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