Wichita- Friends University is excited to announce the upcoming production of Alcina, an opera byG. F. Handel. The performance will take place in-person on Thursday, Oct. 8, Friday, Oct. 9 and Sunday, Oct. 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Sedgwick County Zoo’s Main Stage.
“You will not want to miss this gripping tale of enchantment and entrapment against the picturesque backdrop of the zoo,” said Gabriel Karst, the opera’s production assistant.
Alcina is based on an excerpt from Ludovico Ariosto’s epic poem, Orlando furioso, in which the hero, Ruggiero, arrives on an island enchanted by the sorceress, Alcina. The beautiful Alcina seduces every knight that lands on her island, but soon tires of her lovers and changes them into wild animals, stones or plants. Alcina places Ruggiero under a love spell but soon falls deeply in love with him. When Ruggiero’s betrothed arrives on the island to rescue him, conflict eventually ensues.
Friends University is grateful for our partners at the Sedgwick County Zoo for providing a fitting, beautiful and safe environment for this enchanting production, in addition to partnering with us on our nationally recognized bachelors’ degree program in zoo science. All audience members are asked to wear a mask. An exception will be made if eating from the provided concession stand while maintaining social distance from other patrons.
While the exhibits are closed during the event, some animals may make an appearance to watch the show. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and some tickets may be available to be purchased at the door.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, students and zoo members. They may be purchased ahead of time by visiting friends.edu/fineartstickets.
The production will feature an English language translation prepared by Amanda Holden for the English National Opera. Dr. Matthew Schloneger is the producer and stage director; Dr. Jamie Knight is the music and orchestra director and Andrea Vazquez-Aguirre is the director of ballet.
For more information on this event or other Fine Arts events, please contact the Fine Arts Box Office at 316-295-5677 or finearts@friends.edu.
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.
