This week, Michigan State University Opera Theatre will present “Falstaff,” by Giuseppe Verdi, the composer’s last of 28 operas. Based on Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor” and “Henry IV,” the comedy follows “an aged, oversized knight and his endeavors to woo two married women to gain access to their husbands’ fortunes. Although he is outsmarted by the women at every turn, Falstaff continues to believe he is irresistible, painting a tale of how our self-perception can often lead to foolish outcomes.”
“The moral of the story is all the world’s a joke, and he who laughs last laughs the best,” said Melanie Helton, director of MSU Opera Theatre.
The opera will be sung in Italian with English subtitles. The large student cast and pit orchestra have been preparing since the beginning of the semester for this large-scale production, which is usually performed by professional opera companies.
“‘Falstaff’ is an incredible and exciting undertaking,” Helton said. “We just happen to have a fun group of young singers who are capable of singing these difficult roles, and they are all doing beautifully. They’ve put their heart into this uplifting, comedic work during a time of pain and healing for our Spartan community.”
Tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (ages 60 and older) and $7 for students and can be purchased at music.msu.edu.
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