Belle Nuit: A French Opera Gala @ Solon Center for the Arts 9/5 After performing a successful run of Italian opera music outside at the Italian Cultural Gardens over the summer, Opera Per Tutti ("Opera for All") has moved on to the French composers singing many popular favorites including selections from George Bizet's Carmen and Jacques Offenbach's Tales of Hoffman. Acting as narrator, Robert Conrad, co-founder and president of WCLV, added his deep voice and articulate pronunciations to the song descriptions.

Andrea Anelli, general director of the opera company and soprano, gathered a professional line-up of artists with remarkable range and depth of voice, drama, and emotion. Kimberly Lauritsen, dressed in a full-length soft golden skirt and shimmering top, portrayed a convincing and seductive Carmen skillfully using her mezzo soprano voice. Jennifer Woda, also a mezzo soprano, demonstrated her range of vocal talent as she used effective facial expressions and sashaying body movements to convey her attractiveness.

Timothy Culver, tenor, dressed in a full-tailed tuxedo, contributed his surprising depth and richness of voice to the musical selections. James Love, baritone, is a tall, solid-looking fellow who used his physical features well to enhance his vocal roles conveying the emotion of the songs. Greg Bassett, conductor, artfully re-arranged the music of a normally full-sized production reducing the score to fit a 12-piece chamber orchestra.

With the Opera Preview one hour before the performance, visitors get an opportunity to learn about the opera music and the composers. The Reception immediately following the concert allows patrons and fans to meet the stars. This is a winning combination truly making Opera Per Tutti an opera for all. Stay tuned for Opera Per Tutti's upcoming performances – Show Boat in January and I Pagliacci in May. Call 440-337-1400 or visit http://www.operapertutti.org for more information.

From Cool Cleveland contributor Susan Schaul susn1ATatt.net

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