Happenings at Skylark January 2024
A new Artistic Director and two successful productions highlight 2023
Three Decembers--May 2023, Jungle Theater
Photos by Matt Bellin
Skylark presented the local premiere of Jake Hegge's Three Decembers at the Jungle Theater in May 2023, offering audiences the intimate opera experience Skylark brings to every production. The Minnesota-based cast of Norah Long, Siena Forest, and Anthony Potts received glowing audience and critical reviews. Gary Briggle was stage director, with Carson Rose Schneider serving as music director and collaborative performance pianist, where she was joined by Eric McEnaney.
From the audience:
"If you like superb singing and acting, provocative story, exceptional direction and contemporary opera, this is for you!"
From the critics:
"[T]he emotions are true, and the aesthetics are stunning...couldn't be performed any better than Skylark's production." Cherry and Spoon
"See it if you love beautiful music that expresses a full range of emotions, sung by three actors with sublime vocal abilities...staged with keen sensitivity...lovely, lovely work." Arty Dorman, Talkin' Broadway
"Speaking of stunning—this cast!…a wonderful work, and a truly fantastic production that should be seen.” Life in Revue
Three Decembers was one of four operas nominated for a Broadway World regional award and was selected by Cherry and Spoon as a favorite musical performance of 2023.
The Gift of the Magi--December 2023, Lowry Lab Theater
Photos by Jeff Newcomer
Skylark closed 2023 with composer David Conte's and librettist Nicholas Giardini's operatic adaption of O. Henry's beloved short story. Siena Forest and Anthony Potts sang the roles of Della and Jim, with Jeremiah Sanders and Alyssa Burdick in their Skylark debuts as the couple's friends Henry and Maggie. Darius Gillard, Benjamin Dutcher, and Yuran Liu sang the roles of the Magi. Skylark was thrilled to welcome stage director Karen Weber in her first production for the company. Another first---new Artistic Director James Barnett served as music director.
From the audience:
"Magical...so tender and exquisite...pure, accessible theatre, an invitation to walk through the doorway of your own truest heart."
"The intimacy of the production was amazing."
From the critics:
"[S]uccinctly and beautifully told...Siena Forest and Anthony Potts...both sing beautifully and make for a believable couple in love...Alyssa Burdick and Jeremiah Sanders provide great emotional and vocal support..." Cherry and Spoon
A best holiday pick by the Star Tribune and MinnPost and featured on MPR's ArtHounds.
Beer, Fun, and Waltzes at Second Annual OctOpera Fest
September 25th brought the 2nd annual OktOpera Fest, a fun- and fund-raising gathering of Skylark friends. It was a night of opera trivia, food, beer, and some beautiful singing! Attendees were entertained with a program of Strauss waltzes and arias performed by soprano Leeann Schuering, with piano accompaniment by Skylark’s Artistic Director, James Barnett (in full Bavarian regalia),and the added piano virtuosity of Lara Bolton who joined James for some four handed piano hi-jinks.
Coming up in the first half of 2024!
A Sip of Opera
Mark February 17th, 2024 on your calendars for A Sip of Opera. Join us as soprano Symone Harcum presents opera arias celebrating the great American soprano Leontyne Price’s legacy during Black History Month. This evening of light desserts, wine, and opera will be held at Nautilus Music Theater 308 Prince Street #190; St Paul, Minnesota 55101. Ticket sales for this limited seating, special performance will be announced shortly. You won’t want to miss it!
Free Sundays at Landmark Concert, April 14
On April 14th, Skylark returns to the Landmark Center for a free concert as part of the Sundays at Landmark series. Watch upcoming newsletters for details.
Skylark for Seniors Continues
Begun during the pandemic to bring music to shut-in folks at senior residences, Skylark for Seniors is going into its fourth year! These wildly popular performances will continue in 2024.
Coming in June: Stephen Sondheim's Marry Me a Little
Skylark will present Stephen Sondheim’s Marry Me a Little at the Crane Theater in northeast Minneapolis June 21-23rd. This captivating exploration of love, loneliness, and the human connection showcases Sondheim's trademark acute observation of relationships. The exquisite melodies and insightful lyrics are a testament to Sondheim’s masterful storytelling. Marry Me a Little will be a “must-see” production of the summer. Watch for ticket sales, beginning in April.
Skylark Welcomes a New Website Sponsor
Skylark is pleased to welcome our newest website sponsor ZenBusiness. Check them out on our website, where you will find information about all our sponsors.