The UCF Symphony Orchestra shines under the baton of guest conductor Eric Jacobsen, performing Dvořák’s Carnival Overture and Respighi’s Pines of Rome. Singers from Orlando Opera join for a preview performance of UCF professor of composition Alex Burtzos’ new opera, HE Who Gets Slapped. Selected songs will be performed.
HE Who Gets Slapped is an opera in development by Alex Burtzos and librettist Daniel Neer, based on Leonid Andreyev’s 1915 play of the same name. The opera’s action revolves around a mysterious stranger, known only as “HE,” who works as a clown at a small circus in the early part of the 20th century. In addition to lengthy runs on Broadway and London’s West End, Andreyev’s tale has been adapted into a Russian silent film (1916), an MGM feature (1924), a novel (1924) and more. This operatic setting is testament to its continuing timeless appeal.
Featuring musicians of the UCF Symphony Orchestra:
Eric Jacobsen, conductor
Sara Lucille Law, soprano
Raphaella Medina, mezzo soprano
Robert Hartfield, tenor
Geoffrey Peterson, baritone
Joe Colsant, bass
This opera is in production with support from Opera Orlando.
UCF faculty and staff, and students from any institution with a valid ID can use the code ILOVEUCF2023 for a $5 discount.
This performance is generously supported by the Judith & David Albertson Endowment for the Arts.
