The MSU Opera Theatre brings a light-hearted production to the stage this spring that follows the mishaps of a shy young lad in Benjamin Britten’s Albert Herring. As staged by MSU Opera Theatre Director and Professor of Voice Melanie Helton, the comedic gem set in early 20th Century England features a full student cast in Fairchild Theatre on Wednesday, March 23, Friday, March 25, and Saturday, March 26 at 7 p.m.; and Sunday, March 27 at 3 p.m.  

Helton produces The Worthington Family Foundation Opera Season and serves as the stage director for the spring production. MSU Assistant Director of Orchestras Katherine Kilburn will conduct the MSU Symphony from the pit, and Professor of Scene Design Kirk Domer from the MSU Department of Theatre is the set designer. 

Set in 1910 Suffolk, England, Britten’s comic opera Albert Herring reflects the quirky, seemingly bucolic nature of village life. Originally premiered in the post-war 1940s, the opera’s humorous tone broke from Britten’s recent operatic work that depicted a tragic, unsettling theme. Albert Herring follows the tale of the last “innocent” young person in town and the ensuring troubles after his election as May King. Patrons who like “Downton Abbey” with a bit of “The Vicar of Dibley” thrown in will love the playful romp that unfolds over three acts. Helton pairs dramatic elements with an orchestral backdrop and libretto adapted from a 19th-century short story by French author Guy de Maupassant. The result is a lively, accessible experience sung and subtitled in English for the new or seasoned operagoer. 

“We’re excited about bringing this light-hearted opera to the stage as a way to help uplift the community through the arts,” said Helton. “Our fantastic group of student singers and instrumentalists have put their heart into this production. Thanks to our generous donors, we’re able to stage a memorable and thoroughly entertaining opera that proves it truly ‘takes a village.’” 

Soprano Melanie Helton has directed the award-winning MSU Opera Program for over 20 years. Albert Herring is the second of two fully-staged and costumed productions in the LIVE AGAIN 2021-22 season. A third gala event earlier this spring celebrated the vocal arts and featured scenes from operatic masterworks. 

The entire MSU Opera Season is generously supported by the Worthington Family Foundation. Albert Herring by Benjamin Britten is generously sponsored by James and Susan Bonfiglio. All MSU Opera Theatre events are held in the Fairchild Theatre, with preview lectures held 45 minutes before the performance. 

Reserved seating tickets are $22 for adults, $20 for seniors (age 60 and older) and $7 for students. Information on this and other concerts, recitals and performances can be found on the MSU College of Music website. Please note: As of March 6, the university will no longer require patrons to wear masks and show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test to attend events hosted by the College of Music.