If expensive ticket prices have been keeping audiences from spectacular shows with incredible music and drama, then the chance is here for those with little cash. The Madison Opera will be presenting a powerful production of the classic love story \Rom??o et Juliette"" in conjunction with their pay-what-you-can-afford program.
One of the most famous French operas, this version of Shakespeare's ""Romeo and Juliet"" contains all the captivating drama of the original, bringing to life the storied feud between the Montagues and the Capulets, as well as the thrilling emotions of the ill-fated lovers. Starring two young and impressive singers, soprano Joanna Mongiardo as Juliette and tenor Chad Shelton as Rom??o, the opera also features the Madison Opera Chorus and the Madison Symphony Orchestra.
Since countless versions of ""Romeo and Juliet"" have come into existence over the years, from ""West Side Story"" to the recently cancelled television drama ""Skin,"" the accessibility of the story is expected to be a big draw to audiences, according to Madison Opera General Director Anne Stanke.
""Everybody knows 'Romeo and Juliet,'"" she said. ""The cast is young and very believable.""
The projection of English supertitles above the stage in conjunction with French lyrics will also increase the show's accessibility. According to Madison Civic Center publicist Tina Frailey, these supertitles are not distracting and allow the audience to focus on the action on stage while still being able to understand the language. ??
Stunning sets and costumes have been rented from other operas, a common practice due to the expenses incurred in putting on such an elaborate performance. Stanke says she believes the coupling of this lavish scenery and beautiful music come together to form an exquisite production.
""The combination is really a visual spectacle,"" Stanke said.
The Madison Opera has also created a solution to the problem of expensive tickets. Full price tickets range from $15 to $87, but with their Pay-What-You-Can-Afford program, whatever the buyer can afford is what he or she pays.
""They [the Madison Opera] want people to come to the opera,"" said Frailey. ""If $15 is a little too much for you, maybe you can afford five bucks or a few bucks, you just have to go down to the office.""
There is no limit to the number of tickets one can purchase, but they can only be purchased the week of Nov. 17 to Nov. 23 at the Madison Opera office, 333 Glenway St., between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.
""One roommate could go down to the office and get five tickets for 20 bucks, or hey, what a great date night,"" Frailey said.
