By Zach Dunkin
Opera fans can catch a “rising star” in the appropriately named “Opera’s Rising Stars” program Jan. 30-31 in the Schrott Center for the Arts at Butler University. The event, a co-production of Indianapolis Opera and the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, features four finalists from the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions for Chorus and Orchestra.
Consider this event a “stepping stone” for the four young artists involved, said IO’s general director, Kevin Patterson, an Indiana University graduate who has been involved as a producer, director, and educator in hundreds of creative projects for more than 20 years.
“Singing with the Indianapolis Opera and Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra builds their budding careers,” said Patterson. “Each of these artists is looking to establish themselves with organizations across the U.S. that will hire them for their talents…“This is a concert that highlights opera as an art form that is undergoing constant renewal,” said Patterson.
Performers slated to perform include:
- Mezzo-soprano Margaret Mezzacappa, a 2012 Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition winner.
- Soprano Sydney Mancasola, a 2013 Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition winner.
- Tenor Yi Li, a 2014 Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition winner.
- Baritone Reginald Smith, Jr., a 2015 Metropolitan Opera National Council Audition winner.
Opera’s Rising Stars
When: 8 p.m., Jan. 30 and 2:30 p.m., Jan. 31
Where: Schrott Center for the Arts, Butler University, Indianapolis
Tickets: $12-$35, call 283-3531 or visit www.IndyOpera.org
