Stephen F. Austin State University

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Desired love affairs, mistaken identities and foiled plots of revenge are all a part of W.A. Mozart's fast-moving opera, "The Marriage of Figaro," which the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music will present at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 29, through Saturday, March 31, in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

As the opera's title indicates, the main plot revolves around Figaro's marriage to Susanna, but the manner in which all the characters' lives are intertwined reminds us of a soap opera, explained Deborah Dalton, SFA associate professor of music and the opera's director.

"It's a fun story line that the audience will find amusing," Dalton continued. "Plus, we're singing it in English to make it more accessible."

Each year the School of Music produces an opera to give the vocal students the valuable training and experience involved in staging a full-length opera. In addition to the approximately 47 students playing principal roles and serving in the chorus, the production calls for a 30-piece orchestra to provide the musical accompaniment.

"Additionally, we've contracted with theatre students to design the costumes and sets and help with all the technical aspects," Dalton said. "All in all, we've got over 85 students involved in the show."

"The annual production has a loyal audience," explained Diane Flynn, SFA Box Office manager. "And with this year's title being such a well-known one, we anticipate an increase of first-time opera patrons."

"The Marriage of Figaro" is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts, School of Music and University Series. It is sponsored in part by Citizens 1st Bank.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and $5 for students. For tickets or more information, please visit www.finearts.sfasu.edu or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.