A podium and backdrop with the Nebraska Wesleyan University logo.
Puccini's Opera "La Rondine" Comes to O'Donnell Stage

Puccini's Opera "La Rondine" Comes to O'Donnell Stage

Published
  • spring opera
    For the first time NWU music students will perform the spring opera in its native Italian language.
  • spring opera
    For the first time NWU music students will perform the spring opera in its native Italian language.

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.