November 20, 2019

Ball State Theatre and Dance to perform Orpheus in the Underworld

Ball State Opera Theatre’s performance of “Orpheus in the Underworld” will offer a comedic mockery of relationships, opera conventions, puritanism, libertinism, cancel culture and more on November 23 at 7:30 p.m., and November 24 at 3 p.m. in Sursa Performance Hall.

The performance’s 30-member cast sings to the story of the Greek gods and their unruly children as they leave the boredom and perpetual bliss of Mount Olympus for a chance to visit a new kind of scenery: hell.

“This version of Orpheus is unique in that it totally twists this normally romantic story into a tale of bickering spouses who cheat on each other,” said Director of Opera Jon Truitt, also an associate professor of voice. “In a light and humorous way, we address current issues through political parody, which makes for a fun night at the theater.”

Presented in English, the operatic comic romp is complete with well-known choreography like the Can-Can, projected scenery, elaborate costumes, and a 22-member chamber orchestra conducted by Cara Chowning, assistant teaching professor in the School of Music.

Tickets cost $15 for general admission; $13 for seniors; $10 for faculty/staff; and $5 in advance with a student ID at the Emens Box Office, or $8 at the door. For details, call 765-285-5842 or email music@bsu.edu for tickets.