Manchester stages collegiate debut of Stewart Copeland opera
Composer speech on North Manchester campus is delayed to Feb. 28
Stewart Copeland – seasoned, prolific American composer of opera, ballet, film and contemporary orchestral music, internationally known as founder and drummer of The Police – has composed an exciting opera that he describes as a “period, sci-fi, romantic black comedy.”
The Manchester University Music Department and the Manchester Symphony Orchestra offer the collegiate debut of The Invention of Morel at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28 and 29 at the Honeywell Center in Wabash, Ind. General admission is $20; it is $10 for all students, but they must show identification when they pick up their tickets. www.honeywellcenter.org/morel
On Feb. 28, Copeland will speak at the North Manchester, Ind., campus at 10 a.m. in Cordier Auditorium. It is free and open to the public.The presentation was originally scheduled for Feb. 27, but was postponed due to weather delays.
Copeland will also speak briefly at the opera’s opening night. He is not scheduled to attend the second night.
“Few things are more exciting for musicians than working directly with composers and world-class directors,” said Debra Lynn, musical director of the production. She is MU director of choral organizations and vocal studies. “We are so proud that Manchester students and young alumni have the opportunity to learn from two of the greats.”
The MU Music Department is bringing in both Copeland and stage director Kathleen Smith Belcher, from the New York Metropolitan Opera, as artists in residence. Belcher will arrive for stage rehearsals in the middle of February, and Copeland will Skype with performers until arriving on campus a few days before the debut performance of the opera.
“We hope to expand awareness about opera as a vibrant, growing musical genre that is fulfilling and enjoyable for all audiences,” Lynn said. She has arranged for a number of area high school music students to attend the Feb. 27 presentation.
For the media
Please credit Shayne Gray for the photo of Stewart Copeland.
Debra Lynn can be reached for comment at DJLynn@manchester.edu.
Short promo video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wr2v0cMbCAY
Cast
Narrator: Grant Ebert
Fugitive: Thomas Hall
Faustine: Emily Lynn
Morel: Clayton Marcum
Alec/Ombrellieri: Ben Tipton
Dora: McKenzie Hare
Stoever: Seth Hendricks
Duchess: Hayley Cochran
Butler: Barry Drudge
Maid: Judi Orr
About Manchester
With campuses in North Manchester and Fort Wayne, Ind., Manchester University offers more than 70 areas of academic study to 1,400 students in undergraduate programs,a Master of Accountancy, a Master of Science in pharmacogenomics, a Master of Athletic Training a four-year professional Doctor of Pharmacy degree and a four-year dual degree in pharmacy and pharmacogenomics. Learn more about the private, northern Indiana school at www.manchester.edu.
Our mission
Manchester University respects the infinite worth of every individual and graduates persons of ability and conviction who draw upon their education and faith to lead principled, productive, and compassionate lives that improve the human condition.
February 2020