Sept. 24, 2019

Contact David Richardson at 781-738-2100 or dkrichardson@viterbo.edu

VITERBO UNIVERSITY TO PRESENT MAURICE RAVEL’S OPERA THE BEWITCHED CHILD OCT. 5–6

LA CROSSE, Wis. – Viterbo University music students will perform the one-act opera The Bewitched Child (L'enfant et les Sortilèges) by famed 20th century French composer Maurice Ravel at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6 in the Fine Arts Center LaCroix Black Box Theatre.

The Betwitched Child is the story of a rude child who, after being scolded by his mother, throws a tantrum, destroying his room and harming the animals nearby. He is then surprised to find that the unhappy objects in his room come to life. The furniture and decorations begin to talk; even his homework takes shape as it becomes an old man and a chorus of numbers. They all sing out the pain and misery that the child inflicts on them, leading him to an understanding of compassion.

“It is a unique show featuring a great musical score and intriguing fantasy elements,” said David Richardson, Viterbo music adjunct faculty member and the music director of the production. “The story, music, acting, and staging all blend into a theatrical event that audience members will find very enjoyable.”

Richardson is joined by longtime friend and colleague Brent Wilson, who is serving as the guest stage director for the production.

“Our cast of very talented students have been working hard to get ready for this challenging work,” Richardson said. “This is the first time we’ll be performing an opera in the LaCroix Black Box Theatre, which offers us more space and lighting, projection, and other theatrical options to enhance the show. We’re excited to be in that space, and I’m looking forward to what we can do with it.”

The Bewitched Child will be sung in English. It is being presented by arrangement with Boosey & Hawkes, Inc., Sole Agent in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico for Durand S.A. Editions Musicales, publisher and copyright owner.

Tickets are $16 for general admission seating. For tickets, contact the Viterbo box office at 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets.

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