Selah Yearbook 1991-92

Opera Workshop Dr. Wayne Kompelien of Liberty's music department is trying to dispel the myth that opera is boring by "exposing all to American opera." H e created the Opera Workshop, which began two years ago, to successfully complete this endeavor.

The workshop was held December 19, 21 and 22.

The title of the workshop was, "Is it Broadway, or is it Opera?" The production numbers were selections from "Sweeney Todd," "Les Miserables," "Phantom of the Opera," "West Side Story," "Showboat," "The Ballad of Baby Doe," "Susannah" and "Porgy and Bess."

The workshop has a different goal for music students. It gives them a chance to perform on stage, display a character and maintain singing.

It may also be considered a singing-acting class.

"The workshop molds singer and actor," Kompelien said.

There are 12 to 13 people in the class, which is only offered during the fall semester. Most of the students are music majors and singers w h o are already familiar with acting. " W e provide another opportunity to perform," Kompelien said.

Each student was involved in either a solo or duet.

The cast performed in "Sweeney Todd." Mrs. Vanessa Norman, a new full-time faculty member, accompanied them on the piano.

The performers were Cris O'Bryon, John Stroupe, Elizabeth Burns, Joel Gay, Steven Custer, Rachel Heer, Daniel Prunaru, Daniel Vinersar, D a w n Tuttle, Jennifer Kelly, Elizabeth Maben, Jennifer Roberts, A m y Chrispher, and Dr. Kompelien, director and performer.

The workshop was a success each night with an open and receptive audience. Next fall another performance will be given by the workshop.