GVSU Opera Theatre to present "Dido and Aeneas"

GVSU Opera Theatre students will bring to life a story that hasn’t been seen in Grand Rapids for more than 50 years during the ensemble’s presentation of “Dido and Aeneas.”

Performances are scheduled for October 9 at 7:30 p.m., October 10 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and October 11 at 2 p.m. All shows will take place at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre in Grand Rapids (341 Ellsworth Avenue SW).

In this story, written in 1688 by Henry Purcell and reimagined for modern audiences, Dido, the queen of Carthage, is visited by the young Aeneas, a hero of Greek mythology. Their love quickly grows, but a sorceress plots to destroy their love and sends a false messenger to command Aeneas to leave Carthage to found the city of Rome. Torn by his love for Dido and obeying the commands of the gods, Aeneas leaves Carthage. After his departure, Dido dies of grief and a broken heart.

“Dido and Aeneas” is a collaborative performance also spotlighting Grand Valley’s Early Music Ensemble, the Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Ballet, Chamber Choir of Grand Rapids and Daredevil Circus Company.

“It is such a good experience to work side-by-side with artists in West Michigan, not only because of their professional caliber and attitude, but also for the connections we are able to make as upcoming professionals ourselves,” said Valerie Beck, senior voice major portraying Dido. “They set a higher standard for us and we work harder to reach that standard.”

For more information and to order tickets, contact the Grand Rapids Ballet box office at (616) 454-4771 ext. 10, or visit http://www.grballet.com/2015-16-season/dido-aeneas/.