The Crossroads Project and the School of Theatre at Illinois State University host guest artists OperaCréole

(March 6, 2012) Normal, IL. The Crossroads Project and the School of Theatre at Illinois State University will hostguest artists OperaCréole, an operatic ensemble from New Orleans, LA, for a series of free programs, including a special concert with community choirs, beginning Thursday, March 29, 2012. Their visit is in conjunction with the College of Fine Arts production of the operatic masterpiece, La Bohème.

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​Opera and classical music in New Orleans and around the world have always included the contributions of persons of color. The Créoles of New Orleans have made contributions to the music and culture of New Orleans.Their participation in opera (as well as influences from the music of Africa, Spain, and Haiti) contributed to the birth of jazz. OperaCréole prides itself on exploring this cultural history of New Orleans through opera performance and education.

On Thursday, March 29, OperaCréole will give the lecture demonstration “Opera as Therapy” at 11 a.m. inCook Hall, Room 308. At 1 p.m. on the same day, the ensemble will conduct a master class in Kemp Recital Hall.On Saturday, March 31, their visit to Illinois State will culminate in a concert with combined community choirs at 5 p.m. in the Center for the Performing Arts Concert Hall.

Immediately after the concert, the Black Actors Guild will host a reception in the Center for the Performing Arts lobby at 6 p.m. Following the reception, there will be a 7:30 p.m.performance of La Bohème in the Center for the Performing Arts Theatre. All OperaCréole events (except the performance of La Bohème) are free and open to the public.

OperaCréole’s guest artist residency is co-sponsored by Illinois State University’s Office of the President, Office of the Provost/Sage Fund, MECCPAC (A Dean of Students Diversity Initiative), the College of Fine Arts, and theSchools of Music and Theatre.  Additional support is provided by Illinois Wesleyan University’s School of Music, where OperaCréole will conduct a master class for opera students.

For more information about OperaCréole, please visit http://www.operacreole.com.