What happens when love and desire pull in opposite directions?
Nebraska Wesleyan University will perform Giacomo Puccini’s three-act opera, “La Rondine.” This marks the first time the university’s spring opera will be performed in its native Italian language.
The opera’s central figure is Magda, a courtesan with a high-class clientele, including her wealthy suitor, Rambaldo. But Magda longs for real love with respectable country boy Ruggero. If Magda reveals the nature of her connections to the well-connected, will Ruggero still have her?
The role of Magda will by performed by senior Joanna Mackley of Hershey. Mackley and her co-star, senior Gavin Rasmussen of Blair, who plays Ruggero, each earned vocal awards at the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions in December.
Performances will be held Friday, April 15 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 17 at 3 p.m. in O’Donnell Auditorium, located at 50th Street and Huntington Ave. Tickets are available at the door. Cost is $12 for adults, $6 for students and seniors.
The opera will be performed with English subtitles.