Preview Performance Reading of selections from the new opera “William Sprague and His Women” plus discussion

Covering a juicy 100-year slice of R.I. history, this new opera tells the stories of Civil War hero and RI governor Sprague and his famous wives, daughters and later generations. Geoffrey Gibbs has set Richard Vangermeersch’s play to music, using original pieces and authentic period songs. Gibbs will lead a discussion after the preview. Both men are Kingston residents and retired URI professors. Rene de la Garza, Kate Norigian, Deirdre Donovan, Mark Conley, and Billy Ray Poli will perform with MIDI accompaniment. Civil War reenacters from Co. B 2nd R.I. Regiment will also participate.

Admission proceeds support the URI music scholarships. Donations towards the restoration of the Gov. William Sprague portrait that hangs in the State House will also be accepted.

The debut of the full opera is slated for Sunday, September 30, at 4:00pm, in the URI Fine Arts Center Concert Hall, with full cast, chamber music ensemble and chorus.