The Legend of the Fairy Melusine
Fresh from his recent production of the critically acclaimed opera, Joan of Arc, composer Steven Jobe collaborates with director Vanessa Gilbert and puppeteer Dan Butterworth to present a Work-In-Progress showing of Act One of Jobe’s newest opera, The Legend of the Fairy Melusine. The work will be presented with live singers and a chamber ensemble. Performances are at 8pm on Friday September 10 and Saturday September 11, 2010 at the William H. Hall Library at 1825 Broad Street, Cranston. Admission is $10.
For a complete biography of Steven Jobe, go to www.stevenjobe.com.
Based on a French folktale, the story of the fairy Melusine is filled with romance and mystery. Melusine appears most of the time as a normal woman. But, according to a curse laid on her, once a week on Saturdays, she transforms into half-woman, half-serpent—a secret that she keeps from Raimondin, the mortal man she marries.
This Work-In-Progress showing focuses on Act One, in which Melusine and Raimondin meet and marry. The event also marks the initial explorations of director Vanessa Gilbert and puppeteer Dan Butterworth in ways to stage the opera using a variety of media. Butterworth contributes his innovative work with shadow screen puppetry and Gilbert looks to add additional layers with new media in the form of video.
Onstage, the performing forces consist of seven singer/actors—featuring soprano Ariel Galford as Melusine and tenor Peter Deffet as Raimondin. For this iteration, Jobe’s score will utilize a chamber ensemble consisting of violin, cello, pipe organ and orchestral harp. Jobe’s newly constructed set of pitched glass bells will complete the sound world.
The Work-In-Progress showing of The Legend of the Fairy Melusine is made possible by the Meet The Composer Fund and The What Cheer Art. Co.
What: The Legend of the Fairy Melusine- Work-In-Progress Showing
When: Friday September 10 and Saturday September 11 at 8pm
Where: William H. Hall Library, 1825 Broad Street, Cranston, RI
Admission: $10 at door
To make a reservation, call 401-345-4320 or email stevenjobe@gmail.com
Press contact: call 401-345-4320 or email stevenjobe@gmail.com