Opera has turned into a three-ring circus ? literally ? with the American Opera Theater?s (AOT) new production of “Acis and Galatea” at the Theatre Project in Baltimore.
The opera, which was composed in 1718 by George Frideric Handel, was one of his most popular pieces. The story follows Galatea and Acis, a couple whose love is disrupted by Polyphemus, a giant. He falls in love with Galatea and kills Acis in jealousy, upsetting Galatea, who turns Acis? blood into the Acis River, making him immortal.
“The music is extremely traditional. Handel?s score is beautifully written. It consists of seven instruments, including a harpsichord,” said Anne Fulwiler, producing director at the Theatre Project. “The staging of it is what?s unique.”
The production, which is staged like a big-top circus, includes dancing bears, trickery, aerial acrobatic tricks, a crazy ringmaster with a large top hat and more. The show is performed by AOT and directed by Tim Nelson. Aaron Sheehan stars as Acis, with Rebecca Duren as Galatea.
“It?s an insane kind of story,” said Kel Millionie, director of lighting and production design for the AOT. “[Tim] wanted to take it to a new level, make it even more crazy in a circus kind of environment. It?s a very lighthearted and entertaining view of opera.”
Both Fulwiler and Millionie agree that the performance is great for children who are just getting aquainted with operatic music. “[Acis and Galatea] is written and sung completely in English, so it?s quite easy to understand,” said Millionie. “It is also quite short at one hour and 50 minutes, which includes a 15-minute intermission.”
“Acis and Galatea” is also great for people who aren?t familiar with classical performances. “It?s designed around kids, but it?s also very adult-friendly,” Millionie said. “It?s perfect for someone who has never been to the opera before.”
“It?s a fun romp through this beautiful music,” Fulwiler said. “The families have really been enjoying it.”
“It?s rolicking fun, it?s a hoot,” Millionie said. “If you go for no other reason, go just to see someone sing completely upside down.”
?Acis and Galatea?
Acis and Galatea presented by American Opera Theater
Baltimore Theatre Project, 45 W. Preston St., Baltimore
Time: Through Jan. 27, 8 p.m.
Cost: $11 to $25
More info: 410-752-8558
