text only
College of Arts & Sciences
Institutional Header

Welcome Opera Lovers!


Hand

Cover of Barber's A Hand of Bridge


Here you will find up-to-date information on Fall Opera Workshop Scenes and the Spring Opera productions.

Each fall we offer students an Opera Workshop course to develop presentation skills in short opera scenes.  You will learn about studying a role, developing a character, and other fundamentals of being a good actor.  We will also teach you about casting in the world of opera: how your natural voice and physical appearance determine what you should study, and how your stagecraft and musical skill affect your prospects. The Opera Workshop presents the scenes in an on-campus concert at the end of the semester, and sometimes in local venues such as Edwardsville High School.

Auditions for the spring productions occur in the fall, and casting is decided by Winter Break.  You will rehearse in the spring semester and your experience will culminate in a fully staged, costumed, conducted, and directed performance.  Students coach musically with Dr. Marc Schapman and Chorus Master Robert Valentine during the rehearsal process and work independently with their voice teacher, including Dr. Marc Schapman, Dr. Emily Truckenbrod, and Robert Ayllon.  Please refer to the links provided for further information on Spring productions.

Thank you for your interest in SIUE Opera Theater.  Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments.  See you at the opera!

Sincerely,

Dr. Marc Schapman, Director of SIUE Opera Theater
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

The 'e'