Published: April 10, 2014

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2013 ֱ New Opera Workshop production of 'A Wrinkle in Time.'

Opera isIrish author Tóibín’s adaptation of his best-selling novel, ‘The Master’

BOULDER, Colo. — Renowned Irish author Colm Tóibín, Italian composer Alberto Caruso and Ron Daniels, associate director for the Royal Shakespeare Company will join forces atֱ Opera’s New Opera WorkshopJune 13-15.

The trio will work with College of Music student artists on Tóibín’s (the name is pronounced KAH-lum toe-BEEN) adaptation of his 2006 novel, “The Master”—a finalist for the prestigious Booker Prize. The opera deals with the American author, Henry James.

“Like certain of the characters in his novels,” says Leigh Holman, co-director of ֱ NOW, “James was hidden and secretive. Director Ron Daniels calls the opera ‘an unrequited ghost/love story.’ This should translate powerfully to the operatic stage.”

Now in its fifth season, ֱ NOW has earned a reputation in presenting new works. Noted composer Jake Heggie (“Dead Man Walking”) suggested bringing “The Master” to Boulder when Daniels was searching for an appropriate workshop venue.

Composer Alberto Caruso has written numerous works for the stage, including an operatic adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved story, “The Little Prince.”

Friday and Sunday will feature fully staged performances of the second act of “The Master.” On Saturday night, the entire opera will be performed and recorded, Holman says.

“You’ll see us with stands and mics, recording this piece live,” Holman says. “It’s a rare opportunity to observe the process of creation and to share those observations with the creators.” All performances are free and open to the public.

A new component at this year’s workshop will be the Composer Fellows’ initiative. It will provide four student composers from ֱ an opportunity to hone their skills in writing for the stage. Their work will be presented at a concert at 2 p.m. June 8.

ֱ New Opera Workshop

“The Master,” music by Alberto Caruso; libretto by Colm Tóibín

WHEN: June 13 and 14 at 7:30pm, June 15 at 2pm
WHERE: ATLAS Black Box Theater on the ֱ campus
TICKETS: Free and open to the public
INFO:Click here for more informationor call 303-492-6576

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