The A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute presents a gripping evening of two French operas, representing an arc from heartbreak to hilarity.

A tragedy in three scenes, “Médée” weaves a dark and dramatic tale of scorn, revenge and destruction. When Médée’s lover abandons her to marry another woman she enacts a plan to hurt him as deeply as possible, building to a shocking finale.

The comedic “La Colombe” (“The Dove”) raises the question: How far would you go to impress the one you love? Horace, a poor nobleman, is infatuated with the wealthy Countess Sylvie. In a bid to impress her with a luxurious meal, he considers sacrificing his beloved pet dove for the main dish. Mischief ensues as mistaken intentions are revealed and Horace’s devotion is tested.

Music for “Médée” by Darius Milhaud and Libretto by Madeleine Milhaud Music for “La Colombe” by Charles Gounod and Libretto by Jules Barbier and Michel Carré

James Allbritten, Music Director
Steven LaCosse, Stage Director
Eric McEnaney, Music Preparation