Four current music majors of Tabor College, plus a recent alumna of Tabor, have been offered contracts with Lawrence Opera Theatre to sing in the chorus of this summer’s production of Verdi’s beloved opera, “Falstaff,” as well as participate in its young artist program.
Senior Winter Waple, sophomore Jordan Roth, freshmen Jenna Bloomer and Nathan Kemling, and alumna Olivia Kliewer will culminate their participation in an opera scenes concert, musical theatre cabaret and several recitals.
“We are so excited for these students to have successfully auditioned to be a part of this program,” said Jen Stephenson, assistant professor of music and director of vocal studies and opera at Tabor College.
While in Lawrence, the students will receive coaching in Italian language and diction from conductor Raffaele Cipriano, participate in masterclasses on acting and vocal production, and learn more about acting in workshops.
Stephenson said the Lawrence Opera Theatre and Wichita Grand Opera are the only professional opera companies registered with Opera America in the state of Kansas.
In addition, Roth also was offered contracts to sing lead roles with both the Harrower Summer Opera Workshop in Atlanta, Ga., which is run by opera legend Carroll Freeman, and Red River Lyric Opera in Wichita Falls, Texas.
“This is especially exciting, as many of the other singers offered leads with these companies are graduate students at leading universities and conservatories throughout the United States,” Stephenson said.