Two Puccini operas!

USM's Department of Theatre and School of Music are thrilled to present a co-production of two, one-act operas by Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924) — "Suor Angelica" and "Gianni Schicchi."

Sarah Mawn of Lakeville, MA plays the title role of the tragic nun in Puccini's "Suor Angelica" and Jazmin DeRice of Windham plays the part of the unlikeable Zia Principessa.

WHEN: March 13, 14, 19, 20 and 21 at 7:30 p.m., March 15 at 2 p.m.
and a high school matinee with piano on March 17 at 10 a.m.
WHERE: Russell Hall on the University of Southern Maine’s Gorham Campus
TICKETS: Students $10, Seniors/Faculty/Staff/Alumni $14, General public $20
BOX OFFICE: (207) 780-5151

Directed by Dr. Assunta Kent, with musical direction by Ellen Chickering , both operas tell stories of "adjusted" wills and wealthy relatives. "Suor Angelica" is a tragic tale of a young woman, condemned for bearing an illigitamate child, who seeks relief only through death. "Gianni Schicchi" relates a comic tale of a rehabilitated rogue who helps love triumph over greed.

Both operas will be sing in English with Puccini's original score, allowing opera enthusiasts, and those new to the art form, a chance to enjoy the exciting music.

Hopeful parties gather as the will is read during a rehearsal of "Gianni Schicchi." From left they are Joe Murphy of Lee, NH, David Delano of Belfast, Michelle Rawding of St. Albans, ME, Brian Tingdahl of Saco, Alexandra Dietrich of Freeport, Daniel Pendergast of Portland, Mary Bastoni of Fryeburg and John Coons of Corrina.