Gala Event Sets Stage for Scott Joplin Opera in the Fall

Five singers set the stage for Opera Nova’s production of “Treemonisha” in the fall with a gala fund-raising brunch on March 5 at the Washington Golf & Country Club in Arlington.

The abbreviated Scott Joplin opera will be performed for as many as 3,500 school children in the fall and then hopefully be performed by other opera companies across the country.

“How marvelous it is to see the wide-eyed joy that children experience at Opera Nova’s events,” said the emcee, Robin Phillips.

After a wonderful meal of beef, turkey, salads and gazpacho, the guests heard music from the featured singers. Baritone Jose Sacin came on stage with a guitar to sing Lucio Dalla’s “Caruso.” The audience was amused by soprano Stephanie Havens’ “Steal Me, Sweet Thief.” Mezzo soprano Elise Jenkins and soprano Jenni McGinnis wowed the crowed with “Belle Nuit” from Offenbach’s Tales of Hoffman. Arianna Rodriguez showed off some wonderful high notes with “Summertime” from Porgy and Bess.” The five singers all provided a preview of next fall’s production in Arlington with “Slow Drag from Treemonisha, among other songs.

The guests were told that Treemonisha is a story of an 18-year-old African-American girl who rejects ignorance and teaches the importance of education to her fellow villagers. “It’s a powerful message that especially renovates today,” said Phillips.

One of the guests at the brunch was Ruth Erno, who once worked with Catherine Filene Shouse to introduce school children to a theater performance of a professional opera. Among other guests were three members of the Arlington County Board: John Vihstadt, Christian Dorsey and Libby Garvey.

--Article by Michael Doan. Photo by Gail Ruf