Opera students to present Strauss’s ‘Die Fledermaus’ May 8-9

Luther College’s students of the spring semester opera performance class will present two performances of Strauss’s Die Fledermaus Friday and Saturday, May 8-9, 7:30 p.m. in the Main Hall of the Center for Faith and Life. Tickets are $10.  For complete ticket information, telephone the Luther College Box Office, (563) 387-1357, open Monday-Friday, 9-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; extended hours Thursdays: open until 7 p.m.

Die Fledermaus (The Bat) is a Viennese operetta in three acts composed by the “Waltz King” Johann Strauss.  This charming comedy, which takes place in Vienna 1850, is full of deception, lust, laughter and champagne!
Gabriel von Eisenstein is due to serve a prison sentence.  While preparing for his leave, he is paid a visit by Dr. Falke, who convinces Eisenstein to delay his sentence. Instead, the two men will spend the evening at Prince Orlofsky’s masked ball. Falsely announcing his departure for jail, Eisenstein says a teary-eyed farewell to his wife Rosalinda and their chambermaid, Adele.

While Orlofsky’s guests are enjoying themselves at the party, Dr. Falke’s prank begins to unfold. He is seeking revenge against Eisenstein, who once left him stranded in a bat costume.

While Falke entertains the prince with his domestic comedy “The Revenge of the Bat,” Rosalinda, disguised as a Hungarian countess, sets out to test her husband’s faithfulness.

The production is directed by David Judisch, Luther professor of music, and will be sung in English.

    The cast of the Friday production of “Die Fledermaus” includes: Rachel Barkel, Ryan Deignan, Brett Epperson, Brent Gerike, Henry Hammond, Beth Jeddeloh, Lindsey Johnson, Matt Myers, Steve Rosas, Dave Schmitt and Jenny Ward.     
         
    The cast of the Saturday production of “Die Fledermaus” includes: Tyler Best, Gary Danciu, Rachel Grippen, Henry Hammond, Drew Hillertz, Mandy Inhofer, Laura Krumm, Matt Myers, Emily Moore, Zach Owen and Matt Tschimperle.