DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CELEBRATION 32nd ANNUAL COMMEMORATION PROGRAM 6:00 PM | Monday, January 15, 2018 | Fountain Street Church

FEATURING

Guest Speaker April Reign, creator of #OscarsSoWhite

I Dream Presented by Opera Grand Rapids

Presented in colloboration with TABLE OF CONTENTS

Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Supporters and Planning Team...... 4 ™ Celebration Program...... 5 Invent Art April Reign Biography...... 6 Supporting the operA for 14 years, Celebration Purpose...... 6 protecting ArtiStS And inventorS since 1952. In The Center Of It All MLK Inherit the Dream Scholarship...... 7–8 GVSU Winter 2018 Events...... 9 GRCC Winter 2018 Events...... 10 DU Winter 2018 Events...... 11 Celebration Advertisers...... 12–16 I Dream Program...... 17 50 Years of Opera...... 18–19 OGR General Director Welcome... 20 OGR Artistic Director Welcome.... 21 I Dream Production and Cast...... 22 The Story of the Opera I Dream... 23 I Dream Chorus...... 24 I Dream Musicians...... 24 I Dream Production Team...... 24 OGR Board of Trustees...... 25 OGR Staff...... 25 I Dream Biographies...... 26–32 I Dream Program Notes...... 33 OGR Sponsors...... 34–37 18 floors of restored elegance in the heart of a vibrant city. OGR Donors...... 38–42 616.949.9610 www.priceheneveld.com OGR Acknowledgements...... 42 mckaytower.com OGR Advertisers...... 43–72

3 32ND ANNUAL PROGRAM Mistress of Ceremony Keeping the Dream Alive Winning Essay DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. Eva Aguirre Cooper, R’mani Belcher, Riverside Middle School Director of Community Affairs, WOOD TV 8 Teacher: Emily Holt CELEBRATION Invocation Inherit the Dream Scholarship Presentation Reverend Dr. W. Frederick Wooden, Bobby J. Springer, MONDAY, JANUARY 15, 2018 | 6:00 PM | FOUNTAIN STREET CHURCH Senior Minister, Fountain Street Church Director, Pathways to College Office, Grand Valley State University Negro National Anthem *all those able should stand Domingo Hernandez-Gomez, Director, Bob and Aleicia Woodrick Center for Equity Lift Every Voice and Sing and Inclusion, Grand Rapids Community College This program is a collaboration between Grand Valley Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Team James Weldon Johnson State University, Grand Rapids Community College, Rhae-Ann Booker, Ph.D. Davenport University, and Opera Grand Rapids. Christina Arnold...... Owner, CG Arnold Consulting LLC Lift ev’ry voice and sing Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Till earth and heaven ring. Valissa Armstead...... Manager, Inclusion and Diversity, Davenport University Ring with the harmonies of Liberty; “REMEMBER! CELEBRATE! ACT! Spectrum Health Let our rejoicing rise I Dream Preview Performance Anne Berquist...... General Director, Opera Grand Rapids A DAY ON, NOT A DAY OFF.” High as the list’ning skies, Darnell Abraham Rhae-Ann Booker, Ph.D...... Executive Director, Diversity, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Equity, and Inclusion, Davenport University Sing a song full of the faith that MLK Video Presentation The 2018 MLK Celebration Committee would like to thank the the dark past has taught us, following for their dedication and support of this year’s event. Tamber Bustance...... Inclusion Services Manager, Sing a song full of the hope that Introduction of Keynote Speaker Grand Rapids Community College the present has brought us. Ovell Barbee Calvin College Belinda Cunningham...... Corporate Communications Facing the rising sun of Senior Vice President Davenport University Specialist, Spectrum Health A NEW DAY BEGUN, Human Resources, Spectrum Health Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc. Let us march on till victory is won. Kate Folkert...... Graphic Designer, Opera Grand Rapids Keynote Presentation Experience Grand Rapids Angela Freier...... Development Director, Opera Grand Rapids Presidents’ Welcome April Reign, Activist, Writer, and Editor Thomas J. Haas, Ph.D., Creator of viral hashtag #OscarsSoWhite Grand Rapids Community College Tyreece Guyton...... Chief Operating Officer, President, Grand Valley State University Grand Rapids Community Foundation Grand Rapids Initiative for Leaders #OscarsSoWhite, #BlackTwitter and Social Media: Grand Valley State University Domingo Hernandez-Gomez...... Director, Bob and Aleicia Bill Pink, Ph.D., Pursuing Justice in the Digital Age Irwin Seating Woodrick Center for Equity and Inclusion, President, Grand Rapids Community College Grand Rapids Community College INTERMISSION Mercy Health St. Mary’s Jessie Jones...... Community Relations Manager, Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., Metro Health–University of Michigan Health President, Davenport University I Dream Spectrum Health Presented by Opera Grand Rapids Opera Grand Rapids Ashley Roberts...... Marketing Director, Opera Grand Rapids Prince Conference Center at Calvin College Closing Bobby J. Springer...... Chair of 2018 Celebration Team, 2018 Celebration Partners Spectrum Health Director, Pathways to College Office, Varnum Grand Valley State University Wege Foundation Sarah Watson...... Operations Manager, Opera Grand Rapids

4 5 KEYNOTE SPEAKER MLK INHERIT THE DREAM SCHOLARSHIP

APRIL REIGN The MLK Scholarship is awarded annually to students from within and beyond the Kent Intermediate School District. The recipients CREATOR OF VIRAL HASHTAG #OscarsSoWhite are pursuing higher education at Grand Rapids Community College, Grand Valley State University or Davenport University. Incoming freshman students must be full-time and are chosen based on involvement in community service and/or activities in support of April Reign inspires others to use their voice to create social diversity and inclusion. change, challenge the status quo, and increase inclusion of underrepresented communities in the media and the world. Scholarship applications are available in the Woodrick Center for Equity and Inclusion (616) 234-3390; GVSU Office of Multicultural Affairs (616) 331-2177; Davenport University Financial Aid Office (616) 732-1110 Named one of the Top 15 accounts on #BlackTwitter by The National Journal, April is one of social media’s most influential CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S WINNERS: voices on race, politics, and pop culture, with more than 70,000 Twitter followers and counting. As the creator of the Grand Valley State University Jose Cortes, Innovation Central High School, Major: Engineering; Gustavo Perez, Union High rallying cry and viral hashtag #OscarsSoWhite, she challenged School, Major: Anatomy | Grand Rapids Community College Ajaiya R. Beasley, Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, the lack of representation of marginalized communities in Major: Business; Lorra J. Espey, Grand Rapids University Preparatory Academy, Major: Nursing Hollywood, resulting in the most sweeping changes in the history of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

A writer, editor, and former attorney, she is now a prominent PREVIOUS WINNERS Jisel Ochoa-Mendoza 2014-2015 Dejah-Nicole O’Neal Aliyah Walker Lee High School Creston Ottawa Hills 2017-2018 Ester Kamaliza activist working to build on this movement toward greater Immigration Law Pre-Medicine Social Work diversity and equality in the entertainment industry, which Earvin Oakes Potter’s House Forest Hills Northern Antonio Martinez Nursing Shantelle Palmer 2011-2012 includes her work as managing editor of Broadway Black. On Union High School Redford Information Assurance- Serina Marie Santillanes Keanna Fant stage, she shares her provocative yet affecting perspective Mechanical Engineering General Business Cyber Defense Sparta Ottawa Hills on the pursuit of social justice in the era of digital and social David F. Reyes Dong Nguyen Special Education Maria Trujillo Business Administration Ottawa Hills High School Ottawa Hills media, the progress that the film industry has made since Union High School Ariele Williams Hector Garcia Pre-Med Accounting #OscarsSoWhite, and what Hollywood can do to be more Undecided Saginaw Arts and City Sciences Academy Pre-Engineering inclusive going forward. Keona M. Robinson 2015-2016 2012-2013 Nursing East Kentwood High School Saraya Knight Matthew Joubert Kirby Bremer Undecided Kelley Jones Creston Advanced Technology Thornapple Kellogg Ottawa Hills Biochemistry Arlaina Cruz-Rivera Academy Business Marketing Education/Special Education Union High School Computer Science Jayline Perez-Velez Charles B. Singleton, Jr. Criminal Justice Oscar Robles-Vasquez Grand Rapids Central Kuzari Olushola East Grand Rapids Union Nursing Ricky Matthews Grand Rapids Christian Health Sciences Undecided Ottawa Hills High School Physical Therapy Terry Ruedger Earlysha Ross Athletic Training East Kentwood Aaron Williams 2013-2014 Creston CELEBRATION PURPOSE Computer Networking Grand Rapids Christian Athletic Training 2016-2017 Perla Benavides Exercise Science Victoria Smith Grand Rapids Montessori John D. Singleton, III Jeremiah Walton Grand Rapids Catholic Tonight’s celebration remembers the life and legacy of Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids Community College, Khadija Mohamed Sonography Grand Rapids Clintondale High School Central Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Each year we come together for this Davenport University, and Opera Grand Rapids welcome this Union Health Sciences Management Adetunji Ifaturoti Psychology community-wide celebration to honor the great contributions opportunity to join with our community in recognizing, as Dr. Pre-Med LaShaun William East Kentwood Keslyn Slater and sacrifices of Dr. King and to ask ourselves, “What have King said, “Today, our very survival depends on our ability to Innovation Central High Tyra Williams Sports Management Algoma Christian 2010-2011 Innovation Central Political Science I done to make Dr. King’s dream a reality?” stay awake, to adjust to new ideas, to remain vigilant and to School Vanessa Mazariegos Kaisha L. Chilton Sports Medicine face the challenge of change.” Management Union Gina Tiret Creston Shekinah L. Guyton Keirsten Brown Registered Nurse/Nuclear Heritage Pre-Med Grand Rapids University Innovation Central Medicine Technician Technology Prep Academy Strategic Management continued next page Medical Field 6 7 MLK INHERIT THE DREAM SCHOLARSHIP continued Schedule of Events | Winter 2018 Alexander Lopez 2007-2008 Stephanie Thompson 1998-1999 1993-1994 Ottawa Hills Union Shante’ Babb Telecha Powells Armon Williams Criminal Justice Corrections Grand Rapids Central Ottawa Hills Creston Khorissa Lyn Schell Psychology Radiology Transfer 2004-2005 Grand Rapids Christian Kurt Johnson II January 15-20 February & March March Mortuary Science Christina Doe 1996-1997 1992-1993 East Kentwood Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Asian American and Pacific Islander Cesar E. Chavez Celebration Creston Graphic Design Brandon Griffin Meia Love Elementary Education Commemoration Week Heritage Celebration Visit www.gvsu.edu/oma for 2009-2010 Kelloggsville Creston La’ren Lauchie’ Visit www.gvsu.edu/mlk for Visit www.gvsu.edu/oma for complete details. Samantha L. Gonzales Business Administration Nursing/RN Forest Hills Central 2003-2004 Ottawa Hills complete details. complete details. Pre-Med Lakesha Walker Accounting Harold Allaway 1995-1996 Ottawa Hills Stacey Willis, Jr. Union Taurean Pruitt Charles Johnson Psychology April 7 & 8 Grand Rapids Montessori Secondary Education City High/Middle Other Finance & Accounting Valenica Washington February March 17 | 9:00 AM–5:00 PM Celebrating All Walks of Life Health Career Services Cyrena Barnes Musical Education Creston Black History Month R.I.C.E. Conference: Realizing and Traditional Pow Wow Ottawa Hills Instrumental Brittany D. Purnell 2006-2007 Business Administration Computer Information Visit www.gvsu.edu/oma for Addressing Issues in Our Culture Fieldhouse Arena Central Consuelo Vinson Courtney Banks Systems complete details. and Education Health Administration Ottawa Hills 1991-1992 Ottawa Hills Terry Rostic Jr. Radiology Technician DeVos Center, Loosemore Auditorium, Demarius Warren Biomedical Sciences Adrian Mallett Kelloggsville Grand Rapids Pew Campus Union Marcia Washington Other Jenelle James Transfer Journalism Creston Youth Services Ottawa Hills Alesha Taylor Accounting Criminal Justice Valencia Washington For more information: gvsu.edu/oma Other 2008-2009 Creston Krystyn Price Education 1994-1995 Kyrsten Brown Business Administration East Kentwood Ottawa Hills Paula Davis Business Management 2002-2003 Fashion Design Forest Hills Northern 1990-1991 Evan Spells Trinity Hoskins Journalism Clarissa Dawson Charnette Herring Creston Ottawa Hills Creston Charles Johnson Other Culinary Arts Music Education Nursing/RN Other Dental Hygiene Musical Education 36th Annual Demetrius Garcia 2005-2006 2001-2002 Julie Jones The Instrumental Ottawa Hills Creston Chyrisha Brown Veronica Washington Sylvester Awards and Banquet Engineering Consuelo Vinson Executive Secretary Williams Byron Center Other Ottawa Hills Saturday, February 3, 2018 LaShaundra Hoskins Jill Roberts Kenneth Henderson Child Development Radiology Technician Ottawa Hills Godwin Heights Other Accounting Elementary Education Radiology Therapy Congratulations to the 2018 giants award honorees Floyd Skinner Ethel Coe Raymond Tardy Hattie Beverly Justice Award Humanities Award Community Education Award Giant Huemartin Robinson II Not awarded this year. Service Award Carolyn J. Evans Among Giants The Calvin community is proud to Gertrude G. Croom to be Walter Coe Public Milo Brown Martha Reynolds announced. honor the work and legacy of the Service Award Business Award H.C. Toliver Religious Labor Award Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Christina Y. Johnson Wayne D. Wilson Life Award Deborah A. McMillan Lois Jene Thomas (Posthumously) Eugene Browning Phyllis Scott Medical Service Award Activist Award Dr. Valenica L. Agnew Rhondo Cooper W.W. Plummer William Glenn Humanitarian Award Trailblazer Award 143 Bostwick Avenue NE | Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503-3295 Renee Williams Bill Manns ph: (616) 234-3390 | fx: (616) 234-3458 | grcc.edu/woodrickcenter 110555

8 GRCC GIANTS AD for 2018 MLK Program • Size: 7.5” wide x 3.75” tall • black & white • 12/15/17 9 Schedule of Events | Winter 2018 Schedule of Events | Winter 2018

February 3 March 6 March 27 January 15 | 12:00 PM February 12 | 2:00–3:30 PM March 15 | 11:00 AM–2:00 PM 36th Annual Giants Awards 19th Annual Latino Youth Conference 20th Annual Salute to Women Reception MLK Day Celebration & Silent March The Meeting Play César E. Chávez Social Justice March and Banquet Gerald R. Ford Field house, GRCC Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology featuring Rev. Jerry Bishop Robert W. Sneden Center Auditorium & Unity Luncheon DeVos Place downtown campus Center Banquet Rooms, Robert W. Sneden Center Auditorium The Potter’s House School (ticketed event) GRCC downtown campus February 14 | 12:00–6:30PM March 14 | 7:00 PM January 15 | 4:00 PM February 15 | 9:00 AM–4:00 PM April 6–8 February 21 | 7:00 PM Diversity Lecture Series XXIII April 12-13 Day of Service Tunnel of Oppression Grand Rapids Latin American Diversity Lecture Series XXIII with Negin Farsad Institute for Healing Racism David D. Hunting YMCA Robert W. Sneden Meeting Rooms Film Festival with Dawn Porter Fountain Street Church GRCC downtown campus January 16 | 10:00 AM Wealthy Theatre Fountain Street Church (Registration required #OscarsSoWhite, #BlackTwitter March 13 | 6:00 PM www.grcc.edu/ihr) and Social Media: Pursuing Justice Creating a Culture of Respect May 4 | 11:30 AM–1:30 PM in the Digital Age featuring Visiting Woodrow Wilson Cinco de Mayo Celebration Luncheon featuring April Reign Fellow DeDe Bartlett Grand Rapids Public Museum For more information: grcc.edu/woodrickcenter | (616) 234-3390 | [email protected] Robert W. Sneden Center Auditorium Robert W. Sneden Center Auditorium For more information, contact [email protected] 2017-18 The Bob an Aleicia Woodrick Center for Equity and Inclusion in Partnership with GRCC’s Have you been thinking about DIVERSITY LECTURE SERIES XXIII Social Sciences Department Celebrating 23 Years of Diverse Voices becoming a foster parent? February 21, 2018 Dawn Porter is the director and producer of the critically-acclaimed documentary, Gideon’s Army. Dawn Porter Her most recent work, Rise: The Promise of My Brother’s Keeper, chronicles President Obama’s work Criminal Justice System helping young men of color achieve success. Prior to becoming a filmmaker, Porter was the Director Reformer, Attorney, and of News Standards and Practices at ABC News and Vice President of Standards and Practices at A&E Please join us for a free Information meeting Gideon’s Army Filmmaker Networks. A graduate of Swarthmore College and the Georgetown University Law Center, Porter “Defending America initially pursued a career in law, serving as a practicing attorney at the law firm of Baker & Hostetler Tuesday, January 30, 2018 | 6:00-8:00 p.m. in the Age of Mass for five years, before finding her calling as a filmmaker. Incarceration” Center for Community Transformation March 14, 2018 Negin Farsad is a writer, director, and stand-up comedian whose work blends social justice with 1530 Madison Ave SE | Grand Rapids, MI 49507 Negin Farsad comedy. Author of the book How to Make White People Laugh, she is one of the few Iranian-American Muslim female comedians working today, using humor to defuse tensions on issues of race, religion, Author, Social Justice Comedian, Director of and immigration. In her award-wining feature film, The Muslims Are Coming!, Farsad took a group of The Muslims are Coming! Muslim-American comedians across America to perform, connect with local people, and counteract Learn how you can make a difference. “Fighting Islamophobia, Islamophobia through humor. Her work includes hosting the Fake the Nation podcast, writing and Bigotry and What Have directing films such as 3rd Street Blackout and Nerdcore Rising, and winning the first ever YouTube You with Comedy” Visionary Award for her work combatting Muslim stereotypes. 11/17 88443

• For more information, please visit grcc.edu/lecture or call (616) 234-3390 • All lecture begin at 7:00 p.m. at Fountain Street Church, 24 Fountain St. NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 616.371.2036 | Bethany.org/GRFosterCare grcc.edu/lecture • Free and open to all • ASL interpreted • Book signing follows Farsad lecture © 2017 Bethany Christian Services GR.370.AD.17676-2

10 11 Achieving Equity Through Inclusion

The Mission of the Bob and Aleicia Woodrick Center for Equity and Inclusion is to honor the dignity of all people through celebrations and educational opportunities.

The Center promotes the celebration of differences through its programs and activities that advance equity and inclusion for students, faculty, staff, and the community. Our comprehensive initiatives include: Student Success Programs Community Centered Events Workshops and Training

11/17 88443

grcc.edu/woodrickcenter ♦ (616) 234-3390

GRCC Woodrick Center for Equity and Inclusion

12 13 Davenport University joins our community in saluting the memory of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We are proud to prepare students for the diverse and inclusive world of today and tomorrow. davenport.edu | 800-686-1600

Get where the world is going

14 15 January 15

by Douglas Tappin

I DREAM

7:30 PM

Fountain Street Church

16 17 OUR FOUNDERS HAD A BOLD CELEBRATE WITH US! PROPOSITION

To build a professional opera company that would put Grand Rapids on the map for a very discerning audience. 50 years later, we are humbled 50TH ANNIVERSARY NIGHT WITH THE OPERA GALA to be the modern bearers of classical standards and modern ingenuity. May 18 | Van Andel Institute THE MAGIC FLUTE | 1985 Join Opera Grand Rapids for a special celebration honoring 50 years of opera in West Michigan. Featuring special musical The excellent Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra would uphold its guest, classical crossover-operatic pop trio, Forte Tenors JUNE, 1967: reputation, so a deft overture was certain. But what of the performers, an age of iconic headlines. The conflict in Vietnam was a shadow the staging? Figaro takes the stage and counts off the paces—five, across the American psyche. The ink on the Voting Rights Act was ten, twenty—and in an instant, a legacy is born. Couples exchange still fresh. The first presidential election open to all Americans loomed smiles beyond the footlights, and connoisseurs sit up in their chairs. 50 STORIES CELEBRATING 50 YEARS large. America was intent on reaching the moon, but our first grasp In the hours that follow, a timeless tale unfolds, with a consoling idea at the cosmos ended in tragedy. These were times of upheaval and at its heart: no matter how madcap our days, they may end with love. Follow our journey throughout the season as we highlight the promise: a perfect epoch for opera. They are witnessing the birth of an institution, and the papers the next unsung heroes behind the curtain, discuss the opera art form’s day are bold in saying so: real grand opera has come to Grand Rapids. bold future, and take a trip down memory lane. In such heady eras, we look to the arts to elevate, to animate and transform us. We rely upon those practicing their crafts patiently and Over the next five decades, the country would change, and so would out of sight to pull us into the theater, to remind us of our own souls’ Opera Grand Rapids—keeping the grand tradition alive while embracing capacity. To feel the tumult of the world melt away, as a pleasant innovation. We are humbled to be the modern bearers of classical Learn more at operagr.org/50 chill ascends the spine beneath a blooming aria. standards and modern ingenuity. The contemporary opera landscape CARMEN | 2014 is an exciting place. In 2017, you can watch opera composed for The founders of Opera Grand Rapids knew that passion is best when online audiences. You can watch a miniature opera in the intimacy shared with the world. Nevertheless, it was a bold proposition: to build of a small theater. You can even enjoy opera over a craft beer in a a professional opera company that would put Grand Rapids on the map local brewery. We plan to honor our bold beginnings by embracing for a very discerning audience. the future of contemporary opera and bringing modern stories and eclectic programming to new and familiar venues alike. They would have to assemble the city’s most prodigious musical talents and create something greater together than they could alone. They must That spirit will be evident this January, when we stage I Dream: a AIDA | 1997 prove that risk and perseverance could shatter obstacles and win the truly unique musical fusion of blues, jazz, gospel, and opera that tells day—a lesson worthy of Figaro himself. the story of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The performers’ nerves were wild that hot night in early June. Peeking As an integral part of our city’s artistic fabric, it’s our responsibility out at the house as it filled up—the steady, giddy pressure of it building to see to its continual flourishing. Please consider donating to Opera with the noise. The pantheon of Grand Rapids high society, sparkling Grand Rapids to ensure our artistic excellence for the next 50 years with finery taking their seats. The audience bubbling with expectation and beyond. You’ve already made us great. With your support, there’s MADAME BUTTERFLY | 1974 THE BARBER OF SEVILLE | 2017 and chatter, fans fluttering amongst the sea of faces. no limits to the height our voices can reach together.

18 19 WELCOME

FROM THE GENERAL DIRECTOR FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR ANNE BERQUIST MAESTRO JAMES MEENA

Good evening and welcome to Opera Grand Rapids I am honored to welcome you tonight to the premiere We give a very special thanks to our community 50th Season! performance of the new rhythm & blues opera partners Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids I DREAM, paying tribute to the life and vision of Community College, and Davenport University for the Thanks to your support and incredible generosity, the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. wonderful collaboration for this historic celebration. Opera Grand Rapids continues to thrive as a vital part of the West Michigan cultural fabric, enriching The 2018 Martin Luther King Jr. holiday marks the Be sure to note our additional performances this our lives and the lives of others in our community 50th commemoration of Dr. King’s tragic assassination season. During the Palm Sunday holiday at First Park with magnificent opera productions. on April 4 of 1968 and the 55th anniversary of the Congregational Church, the Opera Grand Rapids March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, August Chorus presents a special concert of Gioacchino The 2017-2018 Season marks a truly special 28, 1963. Opera Grand Rapids chose its 50th Rossini’s Stabat Mater paired with Verdi’s Four Sacred occasion for Opera Grand Rapids. We thank you anniversary of bringing opera to the community as a Songs. This wonderful collaboration between the for joining us in our Golden Anniversary year. time to honor this significant holiday and important Opera, Park Church Singers, the Holland Choral and part of our American history. the Holland Symphony is the first of many community Adding to this historic year, it is my great pleasure and second stage performances that are designed to welcome Opera Grand Rapids Artistic Director The inspiring work offers a very personal account of to bring opera to the people. Maestro James Meena in his first season with the the man behind the legend during the final hours of company. His outstanding reputation as a renowned his life. In flashbacks to the beginnings of the Civil The 50th grand opera season ends the way it all conductor and artistic leader is well earned. We look Rights Movement, we visit themes of equality and began, with Mozart’s masterpiece of masterpieces, forward to the many seasons of wonderful musical justice that encourage our fight to this day. The Marriage of Figaro on May 4 and 5 at DeVos theatre-making ahead of us. Performance Hall. To honor our Golden Anniversary, Composer Douglas Tappin’s vision for creating a we present a signature celebration on May 18 at On behalf of the Board of Trustees, Artistic Director, piece that is artistically excellent as well as powerful, Van Andel Institute starring the fantastic Forte Tenors. Artists, and Staff, we thank you for your enthusiastic moving, and inspiring is evident in his unique approach attendance and generous gifts. It is through your and innovative style. The fusion of opera, jazz, and Be a part of the entire 50th commemoration of extraordinary support that Opera Grand Rapids gospel styles beautifully communicates the power Opera Grand Rapids by supporting the Opera with continues to grow and fulfill its mission to encourage and immediacy of his well-crafted script. your attendance at all our performances and events, and cultivate the appreciation of the opera art form. and help us usher in the next 50 years of opera in It brings me great joy to introduce our cast of talented the community. Thank you, and please enjoy the performance. singers for I DREAM: Darnell Abraham, Laquita Mitchell, Kenneth Overton, Lucia Bradford, Greg Kirkland and See you at the Opera. local youth vocalist, Caebre Baty as the young Martin.

20 21

THE STORY OF THE OPERA I DREAM

ACT 1 ACT 2 On the morning of April 3rd 1968, a young preacher from Atlanta Success in Montgomery marks the beginning of a freedom prepares for a journey to Memphis, Tennessee to join striking revolution the young preacher is chosen to lead. But leadership sanitation workers. During the night he has experienced a recurring has its cost and consequences, for him and also for his wife who, dream—one that is a disconcerting mix of reminiscence and though representing much of the strength of his life, faces her Opera Grand Rapids and the premonition. Always, at the center of the dream, is the image own challenges raising their young family while her husband is David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation of a balcony that has about it a strange sense of foreboding, often away from home. Street by street, city by city, he marched Proudly Present and destiny, and a moment he knows he is not yet ready to side by side with others committed to seeing communities all face, but cannot yet explain, or see beyond. across America experience freedom for themselves.

As he sets out on his journey to Memphis, boarding a flight from Though he began to focus on winning political success at a Orchestrations & Music Director...... Carl Marsh Atlanta’s busy airport with his close friend and confidant, he national level in Washington DC, most victories were hard-won Associate Conductor...... Keith Williams begins to reflect on episodes of his life, searching for meaning on streets, and in jail cells throughout the South. There were I DREAM Director...... Daniel Goldstein to his dreams… significant times when he was vilified and celebrated. There Chorus Master...... Dr. Patrick Coyle were struggles around him, war within him, and loneliness and Music and Libretto by Douglas Tappin Rehearsal Pianist...... Robert Byrens First, he remembers the harsh personal experience of racism and despair along the way from Birmingham to Selma. Eventually, Chorus Coordinator...... Paula R. Tibbe segregation in the community of his childhood, his dear maternal the brave stand he inspired the people to take in Selma led to Technical Director...... John A C Despres PREMIERE CONCERT PERFORMANCE Grandmother, and the promise he made to her at her deathbed the enactment of voting rights legislation in 1965, that changed Audio Engineer...... Chris Cole JANUARY 15 | 7:30 P.M. that set his life upon its present course—his promise to love. the course of modern American history. FOUNTAIN STREET CHURCH Later on his journey, his thoughts return to Boston University, the He remembers this kaleidoscope of events as he arrives in GRAND RAPIDS, MI CAST place where he first articulated his unsophisticated ‘love answer’ Memphis, most poignantly on the morning after he makes, Martin...... Darnell Abraham to the persecution and injustice he perceived in the world. It perhaps, the most emotionally draining speech of his life. Finally, Coretta...... Laquita Mitchell was also where he met the woman who would become his wife, just thirty-six hours after he set out from home, he sits alone at Ralph...... Kenneth Overton and would set out with him on a life adventure that took them the edge of his bed in a motel room – late in the afternoon of Jennie Williams (Grandma)...... Lucia Bradford Production sponsors: to Montgomery, Alabama where, together, they would play a April 4th. He knows that outside his room door waits the balcony Hosea...... Greg Kirkland vital role in the 1955 bus boycott that changed the law. of his recurring dreams. Dream has become reality and the Young Martin...... Caebre Baty moment of dream images is now the moment at hand. INTERMISSION Members of Opera Grand Rapids Chorus

Presented in partnership with Musical-Dramatic Arts, Inc., —Composer Douglas Tappin Opera Carolina and Toledo Opera.

The creation of I DREAM is made possible with the support of Novant, Deloitte, the Leon Levine Foundation, the Philip L. Van Every Foundation.

We kindly request that no cameras or other recording devices be used during tonight’s performance. Any form of video or audio recording, including the use of cell phones, during this performance is strictly prohibited. Contents of this program, including repertoire and casting, is specified as correct at the time of publication, but is subject to change without notice and/or refunds.

22 23 I DREAM CHORUS OPERA GRAND RAPIDS BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Trustees Advisory Committee Chorus Master Soprano Mezzo-Soprano Tenor Bass Robert Evett, President Dan Gaydou Dr. Patrick Coyle Jenessa Altvater Avalon Cutts-Jones* Keon Atkins* Ryan Blok* Daniel K. DeWitt, Immediate Past President Arend (Don) Lubbers Sarah S. Brown* Josephine Kornev* Mark Jackson* Donald Curry* James Brady Margaret Malone Rehearsal Pianist Sarah Faasse* Barbara Osburn* Jon Lovegrove* Brandon Harris* Jim Cox Wendy Stock Robert Byrens Elizabeth Hamm* Axelle Pringalle Pelfrêne* Jon Mull Jeff Massey* Nyal Deems Carol Van Andel Madelaine Lane* Cheri Reid Brian Nederveld Michael Ponsetto Christopher L. Edgar, Secretary Pat Waring Chorus Coordinator Paula R. Tibbe Corrie VanRavenswaay Walter Pinder Ronald A. Roys* Joan Gillett Paula R. Tibbe Hannah Tripp* Jared Rader* Rod Zamarron* Dr. Thomas Haas Earle S. (Win) Irwin, Treasurer Honorary * soloist Shaula Johnston Dr. William Appel John T. Jones Muriel Burger Joseph Kozakiewicz Joan Gillett Dr. Gilbert Padula John Gilmore Shari Schwanzl Lorraine Hardebeck I DREAM MUSICIANS Diane St. Claire, Vice President Betty Van Andel† Craig Stucky Orchestrations & Music Director Drums Keyboard Rev. Dr. W. Frederick Wooden † deceased Carl Marsh Norman Edwards William Congdon

Associate Conductor Guitar Keyboard Keith Williams Nick Edelstein Keith Williams

Bass Anna Stadlman

PRODUCTION TEAM OPERA GRAND RAPIDS STAFF

TECHNICAL DIRECTION FOUNTAIN STREET CHURCH STAFF General Director Artistic Director Operations Manager Anne Berquist Maestro James Meena Sarah Watson Technical Director Senior Minister John A C Despres Rev. Dr. W. Frederick Wooden Development Director Marketing Director Graphic Designer Angela Freier Ashley Roberts Kate Folkert Audio Engineer Office Manager Chris Cole Kim Ras

Events Manager Conor Bardallis

24 25 is positioning himself to be a name that will became the highest CD chart debut of any is also the author of The Song of Songs, an BIOGRAPHIES stand alone in the very near future. new solo male gospel artist during its release. adaptation of the Sholem Aleichem novella. Williams currently keeps an extremely busy Carl Marsh, Orchestrations a musical chameleon who was completely at Multi-Platinum artists The Spinners, ZZ Top, Growing up in Silver Spring, MD with his schedule handling executive duties at the He is a graduate of Northwestern University & Music Director ease on a wide musical playground. At the The Jeff Healy Band and French artist Axel Red. twin brother, older sister and another set of thriving label. His current labor of love with a degree in Performance Studies. Grammy® nominated arranger/ legendary Ardent studios, Carl was an integral younger twin brothers, Williams’ formative involves his production work with the Veterans composer Carl Marsh has part of the three highly acclaimed albums It has been said that there is a certain “sound” years were filled with music from the time he EmergencyRelief Foundation for Women He has extensive experience shadowing been an integral part of the recorded by the seminal American rock band that one can find in Carl Marsh’s orchestral could remember. His father was a computer Combat Veterans where he is producing and television directors such as James Burrows North American recording Big Star. Other clients were R&B notables The arrangements, from the simplicity of his string specialist, while his mother worked for the programming Musical content. He is also (The Class), James Widdoes (Til Death, Two industry for over three decades. Staple Singers, Sam and Dave, the Bar-Kays quartets to the grandeur of his arrangements federal government and was also the church producing and developing new musical and a Half Men), Pamela Freyman (How I He began his musical career at the age of five and folk/country artist John Prine. As an for 80+ piece symphonic orchestra. Some organist for over 20 years, where his profound projects in theater and Music Industry Met Your Mother), Andy Ackerman (Rules on piano, adding bassoon, recorder and guitar outgrowth of his success in Memphis, other of his clients say that his writing makes love for music was birthed. Soon thereafter, recordings, in addition to maintaining his of Engagement), Roxann Dawson (Crossing by age 12. By the time he reached the age of paths followed: in Los Angeles there were an orchestra “groove”. Others say that his Keith started playing piano at the age of seven budding solo career. His current single, Jordan), Allison Liddi-Brown (Scandal), Rich 20, he was proficient on over 30 instruments. projects with José Feliciano, Johnny Mathis, orchestras “rock”. No doubt this is from the and by eleven he was the salaried choir director “Thirsty For The Rain” is still climbing the Correll (See Dad Run). Tom Jones, The Temptations and Mel Torme. extensive development of his eclectic roots. for the Ebony Gospel Choir at The Jerusalem charts and encouraging audiences across Carl’s early influences were eclectic: Blood In Muscle Shoals he recorded with the famed Whatever this attribute is, it has contributed Mt. Pleasant United Methodist Church in the country. James Meena, Sweat and Tears, Charlie Patton, Maurice Ravel, Muscle Shoals Rhythm section and the to over 200 Gold and Platinum records, and Rockville, MD. After graduating from high school Artistic Director The Beatles and Nat King Cole. He developed legendary James Brown and Isaac Hayes. In numerous Grammy® nominations. and attending Howard University, Williams Daniel Goldstein, Director James Meena, Opera his pop abilities by playing in some of the most London he played and wrote for Joe Cocker. obtained his degree in piano performance and Daniel Goldstein was most Carolina’s General Director popular bands in Memphis, Tennessee, where In Montreal and Paris his clientele includes the At present, Carl is regularly writing for, and went on to work at Ebenezer A.M.E. Church recently represented on and Principal Conductor the blues and R&B are staples of everyday life. Cirque du Soleil, Diane Tell, Roch Voisin and working with orchestras in Nashville, Montreal, in Ft. Washington, MD, where he first met his Broadway by the revival of since 2000, consistently Axel Red. For his work with Canadian Artist Prague and London, and frequently conducts now music collaborator and business partner, Godspell. He has directed earns critical acclaim for Carl’s classical life as a bassoonist was marked Jim Corcoran he has won numerous awards, his arrangements for orchestra in the famous gospel balladeer Earnest Pugh. Keith eventually over 100 plays and musicals his artistic vision and dynamic presence on by numerous early awards, climaxing in 1972, including a Felix (French Canadian Grammy) Abbey Road studios. transitioned to the historic Ebenezer Baptist worldwide, including work at the podium. The breadth of his repertoire is when he was tapped to study with Bernard for Album of the Year (1984) and a Juno Church in Atlanta, GA, where Martin Luther major theaters across America and Asia. represented by the works of Mozart, Beethoven, Garfield, principal bassoonist of the Philadelphia Award (Canadian Grammy) for Francophone The 2000s find Carl Marsh as active as ever King, Jr. once served as assistant pastor, as Puccini, Berlioz and Verdi, the world première Orchestra. Almost simultaneously, about 150 Album of the Year (2006). in the North American music scene. As a well as, worked with legendary artists such as His recent and upcoming projects include of Victor Davies’ Transit of Venus, to full ballet miles away in New York, he was being signed composer, he has recently had works premiered Aretha Franklin, Jennifer Holliday, Angie Stone, the Broadway: Godspell, Off Broadway: productions and symphony concerts. Mo. Meena as a recording artist (vocalist) to Arista Records Based in Nashville since 1986, Carl has by Orchestra Nashville, and as an arranger/ Jasmine Guy, Bebe Winans and Patti LaBelle. Walmartopia, Lower Ninth by Beau Willimon, serves as Artistic Director for Opera Grand in New York by the legendary Clive Davis. expanded his client roster for his string and conductor for some of Nashville’s best-known Indoor/Outdoor; Regional: Venus in Fur, Rapids, as well as Toledo Opera’s Principal orchestra arrangements to include such country artists his works are performed by orchestras Williams continued to “generate waves” in Falsettos, Les Liasons Dangereuses and God Artistic Advisor. This musical “cross-training”, a three-way artists as Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, Trisha across North America. Musical Theater working as a Rehearsal of Carnage (Huntington), Hello Dolly! and Damn simultaneous development of classical, pop Yearwood, Wynonna, Vince Gill and Willie Supervisor and Vocal Director for Royal Yankees (Goodspeed), Anna Christie (Old This season, Mo. Meena conducts La fanciulla and rhythm and blues, began to develop into Nelson. On the rock side, he has been an Even with all his accomplishments, he still loves Caribbean Cruise Lines, where he was Globe), Artificial Fellow Traveler Work Now!, del West and a double-bill of Rachmaninoff’s its own unique style—a style that began to integral part of the success of ZZ Top in the to reach out for new musical experiences. responsible for the Production Show Ars Nova, Williamstown Theatre Festival, True Aleko paired with Pagliacci with the restored find success in the studios around town. This late 80s and early nineties, and has contributed When asked what continues to keep his entertainment onboard several of the ships West (Williamstown Theatre Festival), and Miss New York City Opera; La fanciulla del West ability to draw from pop, rhythm and blues to projects of REM, Bon Jovi and Bad Company. orchestrations fresh and vital, Carl cites his in the fleet. Additionally, he has worked Margarida’s Way (Bay Street Theatre, with for five prestigious Italian theaters: Teatro di and classical roots continues to give Carl’s curiosity, which has always driven him to as Musical Director for several significant Julie Halston). He is also developing and Giglio, Lucca Italy, Teatro Verdi in Pisa, Teatro work a richness and depth that is uncommon In the area of Contemporary Christian Music, better understand the emotional language musical productions to include the ground writing a solo show with Wayne Brady. Alighieri di Ravenna, Teatro Pavarotti di Modena in music today. Carl’s client list is a veritable who’s-who, of music, and which constantly challenges breaking musical adaptation based on the and Teatro Goldoni di Livorno, plus Rigoletto starting in the 70s with Degarmo and Key, him to keep exploring the possibilities of the life Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.- I DREAM. As a writer, Daniel is currently under commission with Opera Carolina, Toledo Opera, and Opera Around that time (the 70s) in the Memphis Petra and Twila Paris and continuing up to the modern orchestra. by the Public Theater, for which he is writing Grand Rapids, where he also conducts Le nozze studios, he worked for Steve Cropper (“Sittin’ present with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, In 2012, Williams stepped down from his a musical adaptation of Tori Murden McClure’s di Figaro; a Gala concert with Renee Fleming On the Dock Of The Bay, In the Midnight Hour, Mercy Me, Third Day and Point of Grace. Keith Williams, position in Atlanta to take on a more permanent memoir A Pearl in the Storm with singer/ and the Toledo Symphony Orchestra; Porgy & Knock On Wood”), and Leon Russell (Mad Associate Conductor role as A&R Director for Earnest Pugh’s label songwriter Dawn Landes. He was the recipient Bess with Margaret Island Open-Air Theatre Dogs and Englishmen). During later years in At the same time that Carl has been active Keith Williams may be a EPM Music Group, where he now serves as of an inaugural Calderwood Commission from in Budapest for their Summer Festival; Turandot Memphis, he arranged and played on thousands as an arranger/orchestrator, he has also been newcomer to the national label President. the Huntington Theatre Company, for which with Tulsa Opera; and La bohème with the of recording sessions, putting his touch on successful as a songwriter. Once again, his music scene, but he is not he wrote an original musical with Michael Puccini Festival in Torre del Lago. Last season, every genre imaginable: pop, rock, R&B, songwriting credits are eclectic: the seminal new to the music industry. Just a year later, Keith released his second solo Friedman entitled Unknown Soldier, which was he conducted La bohème with Opéra de blues, dance, folk, world, classical. He had New Orleans funk band The Meters, the A former worship leader and album and first national project “Tone For developed at the Manhattan Theater Club, Montréal, Le nozze di Figaro with Toledo Opera, become a sought-after keyboardist/arranger, legendary R&B duet Sam and Dave, and now a seasoned record executive, Williams Worship,” which debuted at #8 on the Billboard O’Neill National Music Theater Conference Top Gospel Album charts. “Tone For Worship” and The McCarter Theater. With Michael, he continued next page 26 27 award-winning artists in the studio and on Santa Barbara Symphony, Jacksonville New Jersey; Clara in Porgy and Bess with Los BIOGRAPHIES continued the concert stage. Symphony, Sheboygan Symphony, and as the Angeles Opera, Washington National Opera, season opener for the Energa Sopot Classic Opéra Comique in Paris and on tour in Caen a Masterworks Concert with Memphis Symphony From Voix des Arts of Mo. Meena’s most James Meena is a graduate of Carnegie Darnell received his Masters degree from the Festival with the Polish Chamber Philharmonic and Granada, Spain; and Micaëla in Carmen Orchestra, and Il barbiere di Siviglia, La fanciulla recent performances of Turandot: “Under the Mellon University and Baldwin Wallace College Manhattan School of Music and is a proud Orchestra. Additionally, PBS invited Ms. Mitchell with New York City Opera, Opera Pacific, and del West, and La traviata with Opera Carolina. baton of James Meena the Charlotte Symphony Conservatory of Music. His principal conducting member of the Actor’s Equity Association. For to perform a solo recital including excerpts most recently, Cincinnati Opera, where the Orchestra delivered an awe-inspiring performance teachers include Thomas Mihalak (New Jersey information visit: www.darnellabraham.com from Porgy and Bess with pianist Craig Terry Cincinnati Enquirer hailed “Mitchell shone A guest conductor, Maestro Meena has lead of the score. Maestro Meena’s conducting was Symphony), Robert Page (Cleveland Orchestra), for the Television Critics Association Press in the role of Micaëla, the peasant girl who performances in opera houses throughout notable for the manner in which, like the great Rudolph Fellner (Pittsburgh Opera), and Boris Laquita Mitchell, Coretta Tour in Los Angeles in preparation for the loves Don José. She was a natural actress, North America, including Opéra de Montréal past interpreters of the operas of Richard Halip (Bolshoi Ballet), with whom he also Soprano Laquita Mitchell broadcast and DVD release of SFO’s Porgy and sang with expressive beauty whenever for Madama Butterfly, Pagliacci/Gianni Schicchi, Strauss, he coaxed sounds from the orchestra studied violin. consistently earns acclaim on and Bess. she was onstage.” Le nozze di Figaro, and La traviata; Michigan that compellingly fulfilled the lush late-Romantic eminent international opera Opera Theatre for Die Zauberflöte; Edmonton promise of the melodic lines while also always Mr. Meena has served as Assistant Conductor and concert stages, leading In recent engagements, she joined Beth An active concert artist, Ms. Mitchell recently Opera for Falstaff, Otello, Macbeth, and Eugene sounding like an opera composed in 1924. to Andre Previn, Gunther Schuller, Michael performances with Los Angeles Morrison Projects and NPR for a production performed Over the Rainbow—an evening Onegin; an exciting new co-production of Roméo The influence of Debussy has almost never Tilson Thomas, Anton Guadagno, and Anton Opera, San Francisco Opera, and recording of David Lang’s The Difficulty honoring Harold Arlen at Weill Recital Hall at et Juliette with Virginia Opera and Toledo Opera; been more discernible than in Maestro Meena’s Coppola. For several seasons, he was Associate Houston Grand Opera, Lyric Opera of Chicago, of Crossing a Field in the role of Virginia Carnegie Hall; Barber’s Knoxville: Summer and Manitoba Opera, where he conducted the handling of the score. His work in Charlotte Conductor of the Pittsburgh Opera, where New York City Opera, Washington National Creeper; performed Strauss’ Four Last Songs of 1915 with the Louisville Orchestra; a début première of Transit of Venus by the Canadian has been consistently perceptive, but he he made his operatic début conducting Die Opera, and Opéra Comique in Paris, New in Classical Roots: A Tribute to Jessye Norman with the New World Symphony in Alberto team of composer Victor Davies and librettist found in Turandot—a score by which many Zauberflöte. He made his professional début York Philharmonic, The Philadelphia with Detroit Symphony Orchestra; sang a Ginastera’s Cantata para la América Mágica; Maureen Hunter, recorded for national broadcast conductors have been defeated—an ideal with the Pittsburgh Symphony conducting Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, special Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert the world première of composer Steven Stucky’s on the CBC. His Opera Carolina performances outlet for the controlled ecstasy of which he Haydn’s monumental oratorio The Creation. among many others. with the Philadelphia Orchestra; sang the August 4, 1964 with Dallas Symphony Orchestra; of Faust, Eugene Onegin, and Il trovatore are is a master.” Mo. Meena was awarded the Distinguished soprano solo in Verdi’s Requiem at Waterbury her Boston Symphony Orchestra début as the captured on recording for NPR World of Opera. Alumni Award by his undergraduate alma mater This season, she will sing selections of Porgy Symphony; sang in two recitals with Collaborative soprano soloist in Wynton Marsalis’ All Rise Since becoming General Director and Principal in 1997 for his commitment to visionary and Bess with Allentown Symphony, the Arts Institute of Chicago, performing works under the direction of Kurt Masur; and the With extensive experience in opera, ballet, and Conductor of Opera Carolina, Mo. Meena has excellence and growth of cultural institutions. soprano solo in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 by Samuel Barber, John Carter and Lee Hoiby; soprano solo in Tippett’s A Child of our Time symphonic music, Maestro Meena held principal demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and with Berkeley Symphony, Violetta in La traviata sang Elijah with Princeton Music Festival; with the Washington Chorus at Kennedy Center. and resident conducting posts with the Cleveland finesse in the area of philanthropic development, Darnell Abraham, Martin with Opera Memphis, and the world première and was a featured soloist in a Gala Concert She has also performed with the Philadelphia Ballet, Toledo Symphony, and Toledo Opera, having expanded the Opera Carolina season Darnell Abraham has of Moravec’s Sanctuary Road at Carnegie Hall with Jerry Steichen and Friends in Tonkawa, Orchestra, New Jersey Symphony, Princeton in addition to guest conducting appearances from 3 to 4 main-stage productions, as well established himself a with Oratorio Society of New York. Last season, OK. She made her début with the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra, the New York Symphonic that include a nationally televised Thanksgiving as adding an annual Gala Benefit Concert. He versatile artist by seamlessly Ms. Mitchell performed the role of Countess Orchestra under Maestro Yannick Nezet-Seguin Ensemble at Alice Tully Hall, and with Branford concert for the Korean Broadcasting System expanded the Education touring company from slipping into character for in Le nozze di Figaro with Toledo Opera and the in the 2015 Salute to Dr. Martin Luther Marsalis and the Garden State Philharmonic. Symphony; performances of Stravinsky’s tour 8 weeks in 1999 to 17 weeks, and, in the contemporary or traditional role of Bess in Porgy and Bess with Traverse King Jr. at Girard College and her New York de force Le Sacre du printemps with the National face of government funding cutbacks, generated musical theater. In Fall 2017, City Symphony and Margaret Island Open-Air Philharmonic début alongside Eric Owens in Ms. Mitchell is an alumna of the Houston Grand Symphony Orchestra, Taiwan; concerts with twice the requisite private sector funding needed. he was awarded the Berkshire Theatre Critics Theatre in Budapest for their summer festival. In Their Footsteps: Great African American Opera Studio, where she performed a variety the Cairo Symphony Orchestra in the new Cairo Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Musical In concert, Mitchell performed Beethoven’s Singers and Their Legacy. of roles including stand-out performances Opera House; and symphony concerts with Since 2000-2001 season, Opera Carolina has and nominated for two BroadwayWorld Regional Symphony No. 9 with the Philadelphia Orchestra in contemporary operas such as Orquidea in the orchestra of the Teatro Massimo Bellini in presented six regional premières, including Awards for Best Actor and Best Supporting at Saratoga Performing Arts Center and gala In her role début as Violetta in La traviata Daniel Catán’s Salsipuedes (world première), Catania, the Orchestra della Toscana in Italy. Cold Sassy Tree and Susannah by Carlisle Actor in a Musical. In addition, Darnell is concerts with Sheboygan Symphony, Arizona with New York City Opera, she was labeled Myhrrine in Mark Adamo’s Lysistrata (world Floyd, the company’s first productions ofDer currently a member of the First National Tour Opera, and Philadelphia Orchestra. Additionally, “extraordinary,” thanks to her “wide expressive première), Barena in David Alden’s production Mo. Meena was engaged as guest conductor Rosenkavalier, Nabucco, Macbeth, and Les of the Tony Award-Winning Broadway Revival, she performs in recital annually at Harare range and big-hearted sound that contains of Jenu˚fa, and The Water in Rachel Portman’s with orchestras and opera companies in the pêcheurs des perles, and the regional premiere The Color Purple. International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe. just a hint of sexy smokiness. Her ‘Sempre The Little Prince (world première) directed by United States, Italy, Taipei, Korea, Canada and of Richard Danielpour’s new American opera, libera’ was enlivened by a rhythmic clarity Francesca Zambello and conducted by Patrick Mexico including the Mexico City Philharmonic, Margaret Garner, starring Denyce Graves in Recent theatrical and studio engagements In her compelling début as Bess in Porgy and that made it seem almost danceable.” Other Summers. Ms. Mitchell was previously a the Washington Opera, Opera Pacific, Portland April 2006. Through Meena’s personal efforts, include: Ragtime (Coalhouse, Barrington Stage Bess with the San Francisco Opera, Opera News notable appearances include Leonora in Il t member of the San Francisco Opera’s world- Opera and the Utah Opera. On opera stages, the Charlotte performances of Margaret Garner Company & Ogunquit Playhouse), Side Show said “Laquita Mitchell, in her first outing as rovatore in South Carolina as well as with renowned Merola Program. She then joined he has conducted legendary singers including were recorded and broadcast over National (Jake, The Media Theatre), Festival of the Bess, dazzled the SFO [San Francisco Opera] Nashville Opera; the role of Sharon in Terrance Wolf Trap Opera in performances as Alice Renée Fleming, Denyce Graves, James Public Radio’s World of Opera program. He is Lion King (Nakawa, The Walt Disney Co.), audience with her purity of tone and vivid McNally’s Master Class at the Kennedy Center; Ford in Antonio Salieri’s Falstaff, Donna Elvira McCracken, Mignon Dunn, Marilyn Horne, also featured on Opera Carolina’s webseries and Tekken 7 soundtrack (Bandai Namco theatrical presence.” She has since reprised the Musetta in La bohème in a return to the Los in Don Giovanni, and presented a recital with Jerome Hines, Diana Soviero, Jerry Hadley, A Look Behind the Curtain. Mo. Meena is the Entertainment). Darnell has also performed role with The Atlanta Opera, The Tanglewood Angeles Opera; Mimì in La bohème with renowned pianist Steven Blier. Mark Delavan and Marcello Giordani. lead producer for Douglas Tappin’s I Dream, a for audiences around the world and has Festival, Madison Symphony, Boston Symphony Cincinnati Opera, and at the Utah Symphony new work created for the 50th commemoration collaborated with Grammy and Emmy Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Toledo Opera, and Opera; Donna Anna in Don Giovanni with of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Springfield Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Florentine Opera, Portland Opera, and Opera continued next page 28 29 Kenneth is a winner of the Liederkranz She appeared in New York City Opera’s VOX Elizabeth Baptist Church in Atlanta, GA, where BIOGRAPHIES continued Competition, Connecticut Opera Guild concert series performing a new work called the pastor is Dr. Craig L. Oliver; General Competition, Rosa Ponselle Competition Crescent City by Anne LeBaron as Marie Leveau Overseer of the Full Gospel Baptist Church A native of New York City, Ms. Mitchell was a the New York première of The Seven Last New Jersey’s Cathedral Basilica, Duluth (Meriden, CT), and a national winner of the also in Yoav Gal’s work called Mosheh as Miriam. Fellowship International. 2004 Metropolitan Opera National Council Words by Michael Jon Trotta with Mid America Superior Symphony, Annapolis Symphony Leontyne Price Vocal Competition. Auditions Grand Prize Winner, and was awarded Productions at Carnegie Hall, Michele in Il Orchestra, Yonkers Philharmonic, Oratorio Ms. Bradford also enjoys singing other genres After an incredible performance and nomination a Sara Tucker Award. She was also the First tabarro with Utah Festival Opera, Dvorák’s Society of New Jersey, Summit Chorale Festival Lucia Bradford, Jennie such as gospel and jazz. She is a member of for a 200 Stellar Gospel Award for Best Group Prize Winner of the Wiener Kammer Oper’s Te Deum with Hunter College Symphony (NJ), New York City Opera’s Schomberg Series, Williams (Grandma) Opera Noire of New York City and the American or Duo of the Year with Five Young Men, Hans Gabor Belvedere Competition, making Orchestra, and Jake in Porgy and Bess with Sarasota Symphony, San Antonio Symphony Mezzo-soprano, Lucia Bradford Spirituals Ensemble under the direction of recipients of the 1999 Gospel People’s Choice her the first American to win this competition Toledo Opera. Kenneth’s interpretation of and Richmond Symphony. His concert and is a native of Brooklyn, N.Y. Doctor Everett McCorvey. Award for Best Group or Duo in Atlanta, and in over twenty years. Additionally, Ms. Mitchell the title role in Porgy and Bess has been oratorio repertoire includes Händel’s Messiah, Ms. Bradford has performed nominations for Best Group or Duo with the was the First Prize Winner of the Houston acclaimed as “breathtaking.” In 2014, he Verdi’s Requiem, Vaughn Williams’ A Sea a number of operatic roles Greg Kirkland, Hosea hit gospel group, Greg Kirkland, Jr. And The Grand Opera Eleanor McCollum Competition débuted with Opéra de Montréal, Palacio Symphony, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9, including Carmen in Bizet’s Faced with the task of trying Generation of Praise from 2003 until the for Young Singers, as well as the winner of Bellas Artes and the Royal Danish Opera as Schubert’s Mass in A-flat, Haydn’s Creation, and La Tragedie de Carmen, Zita in Puccini’s Gianni to revive a generation that present, God has truly proven to Greg that the Audience Choice award. Ms. Mitchell holds Porgy. He made his international début at Vaughan Williams’ Five Mystical Songs. Kenneth Schicchi, La Principessa in Puccini’s Suor has been labeled as hopeless a man’s gift makes room for him and brings a Master of Music degree and the Professional Deutsche Oper Berlin in the critically-acclaimed is also regularly featured with the American Angelica, The Mother in Ravel’s L’Enfant and without a cause, there is him before great men. Studies Certificate at the Manhattan School production from South Africa’s Cape Town Spiritual Ensemble as a soloist for annual des Sortileges, Mercedes in Bizet’s Carmen, one who is willing to accept of Music, and completed undergraduate studies Opera. Kenneth has also portrayed Porgy with performances in the USA and international Mrs. Quickly in Verdi’s Falstaff, The Sorceress the challenge. Greg Kirkland, This has proven to be ever more real, as Greg at Westminster Choir College. Opera Theatre of Pittsburgh, Opera Memphis, tours of Spain, Ecuador and France. in Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, Gertrude in Jr., a native of Brooklyn, New York, was once has performed in several productions, presented Opera Carolina, Lexington Opera Society, Utah Gounod’s Romeo and Juliet, Hippolyta in the lead singer of the chart-topping gospel teen by the entertainment industry’s most powerful Kenneth Overton, Ralph Festival Opera, and in concert with The WDR Kenneth has a passion for both musical theater Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Miss sensation, Five Young Men. While together, the mogul, Mr. Tyler Perry. Including Tyler Perry’s Kenneth Overton is lauded for Orchestra of Cologne at the Klangvokal Music and new works and he made his Broadway Todd in Menotti’s Old Maid and the Thief, group made appearances on such shows as the The Haves and the Have Nots and Madea Gets blending his opulent baritone Festival in Dortmund, The Lithuanian State début in Baz Luhrman’s La bohème. He was the Duchess of Plaza Toro in Gilbert and Donny and Marie Osmond Show, Nickelodeon’s a Job stage plays. Tyler Perry presents Mark with magnetic and varied Symphony Orchestra, The Richmond Symphony, featured in City Center Encores’ production Sullivan’s The Gondoliers, Azelia Dessalines All That, the heavyweight championship boxing E. Swinton’s U Don’t Know Me, The Urban portrayals that seemingly the Sopot Classical Festival with the Polish and recording of Romberg’s The New Moon in the historic return of William Grant Still’s match between Evander Holyfield and Vaughn Musical, in which Greg played several different “emanate from deep within Chamber Philharmonic Orchestra, Springfield and sang the role of Stephen Kumalo in Lost opera Troubled Island with New York City Bean, the 1997 Presidential Inaugural Ball, roles. Tyler Perry and Friends, opening for Earth body and soul.” Heralded by Symphony, Traverse City Symphony, The in the Stars with Skylark Opera. His Carnegie Opera at the Schomburg Center, Maria in BET’s Bobby Jones Gospel Hour, and a host Wind and Fire, for the Tom Joyner Fantastic the BBC for his “exceptional voice,” Kenneth Paducha Symphony, and on tour throughout Hall début was as the baritone soloist in Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess and the Mother of many others. Voyage Cruise in Nassau, Bahamas. Tyler Perry’s made his New York City Opera mainstage début the British Isles. Come Follow Me by Jackson Berkey with the of Paul Dunbar in the premiere of The Mask Hell Hath No Fury, Like a Woman Scorned in 2012 as Doctor Grenvil in Verdi’s La traviata. Westfield Symphony Orchestra (Mid-America in the Mirror by Richard Thompson. God also allowed the voice of Greg Kirkland Jr. and Madea’s Neighbors From Hell! You may That season, Kenneth also made an acclaimed Career highlights include Kenneth’s San Productions). Kenneth has also excelled in to be heard not only in the gospel community, have seen Greg in the spring of 2013, in a début in the world-première of David Ott’s Francisco Opera début as Lawyer Frazier in diverse contemporary works including Ms. Bradford has had the privilege of singing but to reach the masses by touring with such dynamic appearance and performance on the The Widow’s Lantern at Pensacola Opera, Porgy and Bess and Sid in La fanciulla del performances of Corps of Discovery by Michael and touring in Russia with the Krasnoyarsk greats as Pastor John P. Kee and the Strength hit late night show, Conan, on TBS along with whereby he was immediately re-engaged to West, Germont in La traviata with Sacramento Ching at Opera Festival of New Jersey, Six Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra and the 2000 tour, N’SYNC’s Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us The SEEiT Choir!. And a featured appearance star as Joe in Showboat and later Judge Turpin Opera, and Bruckner’s Te Deum in his début Characters in Search of An Author by Hugo Radio Orpheus Symphony Orchestra in Siberia, Now tour, and more recently became featured on BET’s Let’s Stay Together. Having starred in Sweeney Todd the very next season. This with New Jersey Symphony. As a leading Weisgall, and The Gilded Cage by Kioulaphides Dubna and Moscow presented by Opera as the recorded voice of Boris Kodjoe in the as Melvin, the leading man in Stardom season, Overton performs the role of Jake baritone, Kenneth has sung with Opera with Nexus Arts (NY). Noire of New York City. She has also toured in hit motion picture, The Gospel in 2005. Productions’ The Lawd Done Sent Me a Man, Wallace in La fanciulla del West with New York Memphis, Nashville Opera, Connecticut parts of Spain, the Caribbean and throughout and A Richman’s Christmas, God has blessed City Opera, reprises the title role of Porgy and Opera, Chattanooga Symphony and Opera, In collaboration with pianist Kevin Miller, the United States. After a fifteen-year duration as Chief Worship Greg to add Actor to the list of Recording Artist, Bess with Margaret Island Open-Air Theatre Boheme Opera of NJ, Houston Ebony Opera Kenneth released his first solo CD in the fall Leader at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church Worship Leader, Choir Director, and worldwide in Budapest, sings Angela Rice’s Thy Will Be Guild, Tacoma Orchestra, Opera Delaware, of 2013. Been In De Storm So Long: Songs In addition to opera, she enjoys performing in in Norcross, GA., under the pastorate of Bishop Clinician, conducting musical workshops with Done with National Chorale, and joins San Sacramento Opera, and Opera Carolina. His My Fathers Taught Me is his homage to the concert and recital settings. Namely, performing William L. Sheals, God called Greg to serve as churches both local and abroad. Francisco Opera for the world-première of Girls roles with these companies include Papageno spiritual tradition that has been formative in works of Schubert, Rossini and Moses Hogan Director of Worship and Arts at The Greater of the Golden West, a new opera by John in Die Zauberflöte, Sharpless in Madama his artistic life. In step with this legacy, Kenneth at the prestigious Kimmel Center in the Verizon Travelers Rest Baptist Church in Decatur; You can hear Greg Kirkland as a featured soloist, Adams and Peter Sellars. Butterfly, Leporello in Don Giovanni, Schaunard is also co-founder and artistic director of Opera Hall in Philadelphia with the renowned Maestro where the anointed Dr. E. Dewey Smith, Jr. alongside Pastor Donnie McClurkin, on the in La bohème, Ping in Turandot, Angelotti in Noire of New York, a performing arts organization Christoph Eschenbach at the piano, the alto is Pastor and Teacher. While there, Greg has hit single “Bless Me,” by Gospel music icon Recent engagements include Mozart’s Requiem Tosca, and Bello and Sid in La fancuilla del West. created to empower African-American artists soloist in Undine Smith Moore’s The Scene for been groomed under the pastoral leadership JJ Hairston and Youthful Praise. And you may and a Gershwin celebration with National to reach their full creative potential in a the Life of a Martyr in Minnesota, appearing of Pastor Smith, and was blessed to have been have witnessed a recent television appearance Chorale at David Geffen Hall, his début with Kenneth is widely recognized for his concert creative, supportive environment. with chamber orchestras including the Harlem molded under the musical leadership of world on the national “Holiday Gatherings” commercial the New York Philharmonic for Dvorák’s Sym- work, having performed with Phoenix Symphony, Chamber Players performing for their annual renowned, multi-Grammy and Stellar award- with the WALMART Corporation. phony for a New World, Faure’s Requiem and Norwalk Symphony, Montclair State University, Bach series and the St Luke’s orchestra. Ms. winning gospel music producer Kevin Bond. Bradford also enjoys singing new compositions. Greg currently serves as worship leader at continued next page 30 31 BIOGRAPHIES continued PROGRAM NOTES I DREAM

Caebre Baty, Young Martin Dr. Coyle was active in the artistic and social Robert began his musical training as the I wrote and composed the libretto and score of I DREAM In the Classical Tradition Orchestra of 70 musicians; the Caebre Baty is excited to be justice life of Cincinnati, Ohio, for 17 years. soprano soloist for the American Boychoir while living in Atlanta, reading accounts of the Civil Rights realism of Verismo with a primacy of dramatic purpose; on the performing with Opera Grand He was Artistic Director of Cincinnati Men’s School from 1970–1973. He continued Movement, and talking to many individuals who had been a scale of Grand Opera—a prioritization of immense production Rapids. I DREAM is his third Chorus, Director of Music at St. Paul United his studies at Olivet College (BA in piano part of it, including members of Dr. King’s family and some values and tremendous, moving music; a strong sense of local performance with Opera Methodist Church and Contract Associate performance, summa cum laude), Western of his closest friends. The experience was so visceral and so relevance, a vast cast, a significant movement and dance Grand Rapids following his Conductor with Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Michigan University, and Indiana University participation in 2015’s He prepared opera choruses for the College- at South Bend. He was invited to attend the profound that I felt, literally, compelled to tell the story—one aspect, powerful confrontations, opulent duets, and weighty Tosca and Noah’s Flood. He has performed Conservatory of Music, May Festival and Geneva Conservatory to study collaborative of the greatest stories in human history and, more particularly, choruses; through-composed—each scene flowing evenly and at Grand Rapids Civic Theatre in Caroline Cincinnati Symphony and served on the board piano and vocal repertoire with Dalton a great American story of recent history. In order to portray naturally into the next, blending recitative, aria and arioso; or Change, 2016. He is a member of Grand of directors of GALA Choruses International. Baldwin and Gerard Souzay in June and about 30 years of Dr. King’s life in a two-hour period, I needed establishing, developing and resolving themes and motifs; Rapids Youth Symphony Chorus and a former July of 1979. His summer music festivals all my resources as a musical-dramatic writer to set it as a and appropriately featuring full vocal ranges. member of the Grand Rapids African American He is a published composer of choral, keyboard, include the Chamber Music Festival of Rhythm & Blues opera. I am using that term partly because Youth Chorus. Caebre enjoys piano, basketball, handbell and children’s music. Dr. Coyle has Saugatuck (Co-Artistic Director and performer), that is what I set out to do, and also because I appreciate the In the Popular Tradition 21st Century artistic and theatrical and cross country. conducted two series of European Cathedral Westminster Choir College Art Song Workshops, need to label something, to define it, even though it is really sensibilities and consciousness as to duration; two acts lasting Concert Tours in Florence, Assisi, Rome, Los Angeles Philharmonic Institute, Fontana just seamless storytelling using music and drama combined. roughly two hours; written in English; subject matter: popular, Dr. Patrick Coyle, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest and Prague; has Chamber Arts, Blossom Festival, and Garth Chorus Master eight commercially available CDs to his credit; Newel Music Festival. relevant, accessible and universal; form: familiar song, melodic, Dr. Patrick Coyle, Chorus and has conducted choirs and orchestras in At the core of the story is a plight that is one of injustice—the and rhythmic structure; style: a fusion of contemporary, gospel, Master of Opera Grand concert in San Jose, Tampa, New York, Toronto, Mr. Byrens has worked with many renowned plight of the poor, the needy, the orphaned, the oppressed, soul, spiritual, blues and jazz; rhythm and blues instrumentation— Rapids, received the Doctor Montreal, Miami and Boston. musicians during the course of his musical the downtrodden, the stranger, the captive, the hated one, the featuring piano, keyboard, Hammond B-3, lead and acoustic of Musical Arts Degree in life journey. His principle teachers include ones whom are persecuted. But in the face of that plight, and guitar, bass guitar, and drums; pace: relentlessly moving towards conducting at Cincinnati’s Robert Byrens, Dalton Baldwin, Ivan Frazier, and Ronald the most remarkable thing to me about the story, is the way an escalated conclusion; selected moments of dialogue. College-Conservatory of Music and holds Rehearsal Pianist Gorevic. Additionally, he has performed in people chose to confront it by using love, which is astonishing. degrees from Furman University, Emory Robert Byrens is one of the vocal master classes for Phyllis Curtin, Elly And, not just a theoretical concept of love, but love that was I set out to create something artistically excellent (musically, University and Converse College. Dr. Coyle region’s finest collaborative Ameling, Gerard Souzay, William Parker, Jessye walked out in a strong, practical way. lyrically and as a matter of production) and entertaining—a is a native of South Carolina and moved to pianists. He is sought after Norman, Martin Katz, and Robert Spillman. Saugatuck in 2011, having enjoyed the beauty as a vocal and instrumental He has performed in training orchestras with powerful, moving, and inspiring operatic experience that is and friendliness of West Michigan as a partner and has performed Leonard Bernstein, Daniel Lewis, Herbert The focus for I DREAM is the thirty-six hours leading up to definitive, memorable, and enduring. Additionally, I wrote and part-timer since 2008. He has performed well over a thousand programs in his forty Blomstedt, Neville Marriner, and Andrew Parrot. Dr. King’s assassination on April 4th 1968, and a series of composed I DREAM to honor the life and work of Martin Luther and conducted opera and musical theatre plus years as a concert artist. His playing has As a former professional symphony violist, his dreams, reminiscence, and premonitions in respect to his life King, Jr. and the movement he inspired, to unite diverse since his teenage years, with most recent been described as “beautifully expressive” with conductor roster includes David Lockington, leading up to that point—right to the fateful moment on the individuals and institutions in understanding the prophetic performances of Porgy and Bess, La bohème, a “singing tone” and “impeccable articulation.” Catherine Comet, Kenneth Kiesler, William balcony of Memphis’ Lorraine Motel. It is an exploration, a message of Dr. King, and to remember Dr. King’s dream in the Amahl and the Night Visitors, and Cabaret. He joined the faculty of Grand Valley State Stein, Yoshimi Tekada, A. Clyde Roller, and challenge and an articulation of the villain and the hero within midst of contemporary culture, in a way that moves those who He is also Minister of Music at historic Park University in 1990, where he currently serves Gustav Meier. the heart, humanity and façade of a man. I DREAM is a work experience I Dream to live that dream by loving as Dr. King did. Church in Grand Rapids, where he oversees as an artist faculty pianist and vocal coach. that effectively bridges classical and popular traditions in its twelve employees, conducts four of the He is the rehearsal pianist and vocal coach church’s eight ensembles, and maintains two for Opera Grand Rapids, a position he has held composition and orchestration. concert series: Great American Voices and since 1994. He has recently partnered with —Composer Douglas Tappin Music at Mid-Day. cellist Nancy Steltmann to form Il Duo Lirico.

32 33 SPONSORS

Opera Grand Rapids appreciates the support of our production, event, and program sponsors for the 2017-18 performance season. For more information about becoming a sponsor, please contact Angela J. Freier, Development Director at 616.451.2741, ext. 106. SPECIAL THANKS TO

OUR SEASON SPONSOR Season Sponsor & Betty Van Andel Scholarship Sponsor

Season Symphony Sponsor Supertitle Sponsor

Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation

Production Sponsors

Anonymous

The generous support of our Season Sponsor, the David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation, helps to bring live opera to West Michigan.

In addition to providing crucial financial support, Dave and Carol have been generous with their time and energy, continuing the Van Andel Family’s philanthropic legacy. Third Tier Sponsors

From the Opera Grand Rapids family, we thank you for your continued support of this celebrated art form and of this community.

34 35 Education Sponsors SPONSORS continued

Collegiate Consortium Peter F. Secchia Family Anonymous

Sebastian Foundation

Collegiate Vocal Competition Sponsors

Additional Sponsors Karl and Jean Vander Laan

Night With The Opera Sponsors

Ballads & Brews Sponsors

Peter F. Secchia Family

Anonymous Richard and Helen J.C. and Tammy Mary Ann Dr. Luis A. Tomatis DeVos Foundation Huizenga Keeler and Gretchen Minnhaar J. C. and Tammy Dave and Linda Robert and Julie Huizenga Mehney David and Judy Connors Dorothy Joseph Kozakiewicz Schalon Frey Johnson and Jennell Challa Foundation

Dan DeWitt and Danny and Lou Ann Bob and Deb Evett James and Cathy Dan DeWitt and Judge and Mrs. Chris and Linda Edgar Lisa DeFerrari Judge and Mrs. Mark and Elizabeth Kate Brady Lisa DeFerrari Donald A. Johnston Gaydou Donald A. Johnston Murray Pew Wolters

36 37 Harriet Christensen Maria and Paul Hesse Richard and Kathleen Bucknam DONORS Phillip and Julie Croll John and Gwen Hibbard Karl Butterer and Delaine Pope Nyal Deems Stephen M. Hoyle Lyn and Dick Bullington Jon and Mary Ann DeWitt Wallson and Rebecca Knack Ned and Elizabeth Crouch Foundations and Public Support Nancy L. Douglas Nancy Curran Knauss Ronald L. and Jessie F. Dalman Opera Grand Rapids appreciates the support of the following foundations and public organizations. Steven Eriksson and Karen Wolf Todd Knibbe and Chhaya Agrawal Bob and Denise Davidoff Barbara Fisk Tony Kroes and Shellie Jeffries Robert Dean Director’s Circle ($10,000+) Platinum Circle ($5,000+) Silver Circle ($2,500+) Dr. John T. and Lisa Frey Blake and Mary Krueger Ed DeJong and Diane Van Wesep Anonymous Anonymous Jury Foundation George and Barbara Gordon Jerry and Susan Kruyf Harvey DeMaagd Edith Blodgett Legacy Fund Dick and Betsy DeVos Family Foundation Nonprofit Technical Assistance Fund Tom and Marcia Haas Mary Esther Lee and Lee Perry Mike and Nancy Dodge of the Brookby Foundation Friends of the Opera Sebastian Foundation Peter Hahn Jeff and Nita Massey Chris and Deanna Eckert Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation Ann and Gordon Getty Foundation Wolverine Worldwide Foundation Frances and Joseph* Hall John and Kate McGarry Louise and John Edison Richard and Helen DeVos Foundation Opera Affiliates Paul Howland Brian McHugh John and Joanne Emmons DTE Energy Foundation Grand Benefactor ($1,250+) Donald Klopcic Phillip and Amy Mitchell Reverends Maurice and Sara Fetty Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs Arts Midwest Touring Fund John D. Loeks Leonard and Eileen Newman Rob Franciosi and Jo Ellyn Clarey Schalon Foundation The Gerber Foundation June Marshall Irene Nowak Arlene French David and Carol Van Andel Foundation Hank and Liesel Meijer Judy Oberholtzer Gaetan and Quan Gerville-Reache Wege Foundation Pratt Industries Dan and Ann O’Keefe Barbara Gilmore Joan Schleef Sharon and Henk Ottens Jerrold Gretzinger Eddy and Susanne Schmitt Fred and Milly Overeem Lorraine and Gerald Hardebeck Annual Fund Joe and Shari Schwanzl David and Jane Parker Michael and Rebecca Havlicek Lee Strodtman Thomas Pascoe and Jean Stein Todd and Diane Helle Opera Grand Rapids gratefully acknowledges the following donors for their Annual Fund gifts made towards the 2017-18 50th Anniversary Lorrie and Dave VanderArk Nancy Wallace Peters* Robert Hendersen and Kathleen O’Hare Performance Season. Gifts made to the Annual Fund supporting the Opera’s overall programming and performances. Dr. Thomas Villalobos Glen Peterson Betty Hilbert Will and Pamela Wannemacher Debbie Playford Barbara Hohman Director’s Circle ($10,000+) Grand Benefactor ($1,250+) Dr. Gil and Pat Davis David and Kathryn Westphal Kathleen Stewart Ponitz John T. Jones and Nicholas J. VanderLaan Kyle and Win Irwin Dr. Patrick Coyle Mrs. Joy DeBoer Peter and B.J. Whigham Roland Prevost Mary Karmes Peter and Joan Secchia Robert Diamond and Sheila Kinney Twink Frey Ric Roane and Leandro Robles Bill and Nella Kennedy Chris and Linda Edgar Dick and Samantha Gauthier Patron ($200+) Milt and Barb Rohwer Andrew and Joy Kim Platinum Circle ($5,000+) Paul and Bridget Farr Clarice Geels Anonymous Timothy and Cynthia Schad Douglas Klein Jacquelyn De Regnaucourt The Gerber Foundation Sally and Tom Gleason Peggy Barber Martha Scherpenisse Michael and Michele Kopinski J.C. and Tammy Huizenga John F. Gilmore Cassandra Hayes Helen Basso Susan Shannon Rich and Sue Liberatore Irwin Seating Company IATSE Local 26 Scott and Kim Huizenga Gene Bego Howard and Marilyn Slenk Melissa Lichtenwalter and Mark Heyboer Kate Pew Wolters Beatrice A. Idema Margaret Idema Noel Bodkins and Wendy Laufer Dr. and Mrs. Paul Stephenson Mike and Melissa Lojek Joseph Kozakiewicz and Jennel Challa F. Martin* and Dorothy A. Johnson Susan and Paul Bowers Ron and Judy Stever Michael D. Loughman Silver Circle ($2,500+) Dr. Arend and Nancy Lubbers Till and Bernice Peters Gregory Carnevale and Diane Mahon Richard Stien Tom and Laura Madison James S. and Cathy Brady James and Norma Jean McCormick Alwyn and Chris Rougier-Chapman Martha and Joseph Crawford Mary Ellen and Judge Paul J. Sullivan Ken Matheson Bob and Julie Connors Dr. Gil Padula George and Joanie Snyder Dave and Karen Custer Peter Turner and Jean Enright Judith L. Meyer, M.D. Jim Cox and Jill Walcott Mike and Barbara Stapleton Susan O. Wold Scott Daunheimer Arlene Warners Kim Mitchell Dan DeWitt and Lisa DeFerrari Diane St. Claire and Tom Northway Reverend Dr. and Mrs. W. Frederick Wooden Bob and Lois DeBoer Stephen and Lee Webster Charlotte and Tom Mohler Bob and Deb Evett Marilyn Titche Nurys Eduardo and James Fox David and Anne-Lise Whitescarver Betty Moore Bill and Cecile Fehsenfeld Cheryl and John Tully Super Patron ($500+) Nathan and Angela Freier Ron and Sue Wortley Terri and Larry Mulligan John Hunting Karl and Jean Vander Laan Anonymous W. and M. Friedlmeier Horst and Erika Nitzsche Judge and Mrs. Donald A. Johnston Daniel L. and Ellen Vander Mey Mark Archer and Jeffrey Dorner Frances S. Ellis Contributor ($100+) James and Barb O’Connor Jury Foundation Leslie and Patrick Ballard Leonard and Mary Gell Anonymous Julie Otterbein Charles* and Stella Royce Benefactor ($750+) Suellen and Tom Bandyk Mrs. Joan F. Gillett Martin and Marjorie Amon Sean Patterson Wendy Stock Anonymous Jim and Betsy Barton Robert Goodrich John and Sharon Applegarth Mr. and Mrs. Louis Pepoy Craig Stucky and Heather Zinn Don and Ellen Arlinsky Janet and John Boyles Grace Harper Charles and Rebecca Bocskey Bradley and Kimberley K. Phillips Dr. Luis Tomatis and Gretchen Minnhaar Robert Beasecker and Erika King The Brooks Family Community Fund Janet Haynes Kati and Joel Boland Rob and Nancy Prescher Margaret Bloemers Nella Burton* Jan Heerspink Sallie H. Bowie Patrick and Cheri Reid Robert Byrens and Jerrod Nickels John and Marie Canepa Robert and Janet Heindrichs Emily Britt Tim and Rebecca Salach Mimi Cummings Brenton H. Carey James Helm Andy Brookhouse and Paul Cook continued next page 38 39 Endowment Contributors DONORS continued Opera Grand Rapids is grateful to the generous donors who have contributed to our Endowment. This fund was developed to secure funds for the Opera’s future. For more information on how to donate to the Opera Grand Rapids Endowment, please contact Development Director, Mary E. Schaff Robert and Barbara Brinkerhoff Paulette Longwell John Scheid Donald and Erma Bruggink Marney MacAdam Angela Freier, at 616-451-2741 or [email protected]. Jim Schindler John G. and Claire E. Bryson Mark and Camille Mann Jean Sheehan Lydia Byers Kenneth Matheson Anonymous Elizabeth M. Gillett Wilma Straight Cody Shephard Mrs. Monika F. Carder Charles Matthews Pamela Franklin Joan F. Gillett Daniel L. Tinkham Ellen and Kenneth Siu Todd and Susan Carlson Dick and Noel McGarrity Susan S. Freihofer* Budge and Marilyn Sherwood John D. Tully Southwell Family Thomas Cartmill Pamela Meyer Justin and Katherine Steffy Guillermo and Amanda Cisneros Bill and Beverly Morrison Ruth Stein Roger and Ruth Cole Dennis, Joni, and Brenden Murphy Tribute Gifts Karen and Jim Stokes Bob and Sandra Colleen Paul and Lisa Phillips Opera Grand Rapids gratefully recognizes the following patrons who have contributed gifts in honor of family, friends, and special occasions. James Swarts Bob Cooper Dorothy Postema We are honored to share in the legacy and impact these individuals have made. Arvin and Pearl Tap Thomas and Tracy Curran Susan Rankin Paul and Marie Ten Elshof Cloe Ann Danford Madelyn Reges In Memory of Clark Afendoulis Richard and Genie Lyman In Honor of Win and Kyle Irwin Dennis Thavenet David Dilsizian Bradley Rudich Janice Brander George and Katy McAleenan Marilyn Leprich Stephen and Kerry Vanderbloomer Nancy Duiven Mrs. Alan R. Ryan The Currie Foundation Robert and Margaret Steketee June Marshall Bill and Grace VanDoorne Patricia Edison Mr. and Mrs. Leo L. Schaut Peg Ernst Susan O. Wold Elaine Van Kley Constance Ellis Dale and Mary Schriemer Katharine M. Gallas In Honor of John T. Jones Bill and Janice VanOosterhout Lucila Escandon Ross Schueller Gloria Gregory In Honor of Robert Byrens Suellen and Tom Bandyk Matt and Paula Vicari Steve and Annie Hawks Gerald J. Schultz Doug and Sally Haan Suellen and Tom Bandyk Roger and Bonnie Wall Gene Fortune and Vern Herring Patricia A. Seiler Mary Karmes David and Kathryn Westphal In Memory of Linn Maxwell Keller Bill and Pat Waring Albert Schweitzer Guild, Dave and Lynn Setsma Legacy Trust Board, Management, & Staff Suellen and Tom Bandyk Rick and Jacquelyn Watson Foundation Street Church Dr. Eugene and Pastor Connie Shatz Mike and Traci Mordell In Memory of Leone Carroll Rich and Sue Liberatore Dixie Wege Charles Gallmeyer Amanda Sherlip Margaret Ryan Friends of the Opera Dick and Mikey Wickard Dianne Garone Donald Sikkema Peter and Joan Secchia In Memory of Earl Carleton Kennedy Charles and Julie Wisse Vicente and Meridell Gracias Mary Lou Smith Universal Forest Products Foundation In Honor of Bob and Deborah Evett Bill and Nella Kennedy Jeanne Wretschko Edward and Celina Harrell Ruth E. Stubbs Kim and George Veras Leroy and Sue Katz Gloria Yff Michael Gouin-Hart Anne and Philip Tait Gail Yonkers In Memory of Robert Knapp, M.D. Joyce R. Zastrow Nathan Hickman Matthew and Kara Taylor In Memory of Susan Freihofer Tom Cartmill Char Zoet Mike Hill Paul Titchenell In Honor of All Service Members Bob and Lois DeBoer Jerene Hofman-Bodkins Phyllis Van Andel Thomas Pascoe and Jill Stein Win and Kyle Irwin In Honor of Madelaine Lane Friend ($1-$99) Tom and Carol Houser Angela Violet Katharine Kane Anonymous Robert and Paulette Israels Jana Wallace In Memory of Barbara Amberg In Honor of Friends of the Opera Board Bill and Jean Appel Julian and Judith Joseph Maria Walsh Suellen and Tom Bandyk Suellen and Tom Bandyk In Memory of Lee Leprich Charles Biewer Katharine Kane Julia Wentz Suellen and Tom Bandyk Jane Bodenmiller Leroy and Sue Katz Barbara Wepman In Honor of Claire E. Bryson In Memory of John R. Gillett Joan Gillett James and Judy Botts Drs. Tye and Katherine Kim Derek Whiteman John G. Bryson Joan Gillet Win and Kyle Irwin Doug and Dawn Brackmann Susan Ledy William Wonderlin and Linda Shuster Phillip and Amy Mitchell Janice Brander Marilyn Leprich Martha Yarington In Honor of Kathryn Bryson Anderson In Memory of Nancy Gould William and Sharon Brandner Lois Loetz Sue Yurick John G. and Claire Bryson Suellen and Tom Bandyk In Memory of Mildred C. Lissfelt James and Judy Botts Estate Gifts In Memory of Nella Burton In Memory of Joseph Hall Opera Grand Rapids extends its sincerest thanks to the following individuals for their dedicated commitment to supporting the Opera Community Foundation of Jackson Hole Fran Hall In Memory of Robert Loetz through a Planned Gift. Thomas and Tracy Curran Lois E. Loetz Patricia Edison In Memory of John Heerspink Donald and Ellen Arlinsky Gilbert and Patricia Davis Leonard and Eileen Newman Charles Glerum Jan Heerspink In Memory of Amy Mulder Paul and Susan Bowers Susan Freihofer* Mr. and Mrs. Alwyn Rougier-Chapman Maria and Paul Hesse Richard Stien Richard and Carolyn Bullington Joan Gillett Wendy Stock Win and Kyle Irwin Robert Byrens and Jerrod Nickels Margaret Idema David and Lorrie Vander Ark Arend and Nancy Lubbers continued next page 40 41 DONORS continued

In Memory of Giuseppe Oreste In Memory of Marg Smith Stephen M. Hoyle Metropolitan Opera Marietta Oreste Bigelow Lois DeBoer Douglas Klein Janet Milak In Memory of Nancy Wallace Peters In Honor of Diane St. Claire and Tom Northway Ruth Stein National Council Suellen and Tom Bandyk Twink Frey The Great Lakes Region is composed of the Win and Kyle Irwin In Memory of Violet Wondergem In Honor of Gloria Tibbe Bill and Pat Waring Michigan District, the Buffalo/Toronto District, In Memory of Lois Poppen John G. and Claire Bryson Auditions and the Pittsburgh District. Winners of those Judith Meyer In Memory of Ron Zoet District competitions will be competing in this In Memory of Patricia Troske Char Zoet In Memory of Michael and Geneva Skaff Janice Brander regional competition. Frances Ellis Bob and Sandra Colleen Leonard and Mary Gell Auditioners compete for substantial prize money, Mike Hill * deceased Great Lakes Regional Competition and the opportunity to advance to the Semi-Finals A Linn Maxwell Keller Celebration in New York City.

Opera Grand Rapids makes every effort to include accurate information for each person who has supported our mission throughout the year. Saturday, January 27, 2018 | 12:00 noon Please contact Angela J. Freier, Development Director at 616-451-2741 ext. 106 or [email protected] if you feel an error has been made. For additional information contact Glen Peterson St. Cecilia Music Center | Grand Rapids, MI at [email protected]

Acknowledgements Thank you to the following individuals, businesses and organizations for volunteering and/or donating goods, services or time to make this performance possible.

Friends of the Opera Sweet Express The Cheese Lady Pre-Performance talks Travel Rowsters Coffee APRIL 15 | 7:00 PM | Betty Van Andel Opera Center Events VOCAL COMPETITION PROMO Opera Affiliates Holland Litho OPERA GRAND RAPIDS Continued support Printing support At Your Service Valet Valet Partner Prince Conference Center COLLEGIATE VOCAL Artist Accomodations COMPETITION Media Support

Vocal students compete in a delightful concert of operatic gems. Judged by professionals, the competition Partner Restaurants showcases West Michigan’s finest budding vocal artists. Free and open to the public. Seating is limited and provided on a first-come basis at the door. For more information, call 616.451.2741.

42 43 A STUDENT’S FIRST EXPERIENCE WITH OPERA

A recipient of Opera Grand Rapids’ five-dollar student ticket program shares her first opera MASTER CLASS WITH experience and why she believes the performing arts should be accessible to everyone, not just MARK those who come from a background of privilege. “Art is a way of living,” says Kelsey May. She sees the creative process everywhere, from great works of literature to the RUCKER banality of everyday obstacles. For Kelsey, living is more of an art than a math problem. “Even if you do have a plan, intentions, and goals, how those goals are met changes, and because of the mistakes you make along the way, it never Professor of Voice ends up being the exact plan you had in your mind.” Michigan State University Kelsey hadn’t considered opera until a professor of hers ABOUT MARK RUCKER suggested the idea. She wasn’t aware of Opera Grand Rapids’ five-dollar student tickets at the time, so a low-cost ticket Blackmail. That’s what launched Mark Rucker’s thirty- was incentive enough to wade into an unfamiliar art form. four-year career in opera. Her first opera was filled with surprises. “I didn’t know beforehand In High School, Mark played football. He had a music that it was going to be in a foreign language, which speaks to We’re very pleased to enable students like Kelsey to experience JANUARY 26, 2018 | 2:00–4:00 PM class, but his heart belonged to football. One day, his my never having attended before,” she says with a laugh. She what we do. We’re also grateful to the donors and schools whose Betty Van Andel Opera Center teacher walked up to him and said, simply, “You’re was surprised, but grateful, for the supertitles. Even as someone sponsorship allows us to offer low-cost student tickets. Kelsey’s Free and open to the public going to be an opera singer.” Time would prove her new to opera, the talent of the singers and the elegance of the perspective on creativity and art as a way of understanding correct. Rucker would go on to dazzle audiences with production left an impression. “The people who were performing life is one we love to see passed to future generations. If all of his rich baritone for decades, from Covent Garden to were just amazing. Their voices had so much emotion,” she our new patrons are as inspiring, enthusiastic, and eloquent, Watch an opera legend coach Carnegie Hall. But he didn’t know that yet. says. “The stage, the set design, the costumes were all beautiful. our art form has a bright future in Grand Rapids. new voices in the field! It was a great experience in the theater.” This makes more sense when you learn that his teacher Read the full story and watch the interview with Kelsy at was the legendary Dr. Lena McLin, niece to Tommy Dorsey, Opera Grand Rapids is committed to bringing students and operagr.org/a-students-first-experience-with-opera. and a cultivator of talent who critic Howard Reich called newcomers through our doors—not just for us, but for the “the woman who launched a thousand careers.” McLin’s future of opera. For many people, an opera ticket is more than roster of famous students includes Chaka Khan, Da Brat, they can justify for an evening’s entertainment. If those people Mandy Patinkin, and many others, including Rucker. have never seen a live opera, they likely never will. Kelsey echoes a sentiment we hear from students often: “My husband A cooperative program of OGR and the Read more and see him talk about his incredible career and I have to be really picky with where we can go to a concert This story is part of a series of 50 stories we are releasing to Michigan District of the Metropolitan on the OGR blog: operagr.org/how-blackmail-launched- or attend a musical, just based on our income. The fact that commemorate 50 years of opera in West Michigan. Browse Opera National Council Auditions mark-ruckers-34-year-career-in-opera/ I could still see the show and appreciate the art, but have it more stories at operagr.org/blog and follow our journey be accessible for my level of income, was really fantastic.” throughout the season.

44 45 OPERA AFFILIATES Founded in 1992, Opera Affiliates provides support, ideas and assistance to Opera ind Yourself Among Grand Rapids. Opera Affiliates stimulates interest in, and an understanding of opera. F OA works to bring awareness and appreciation of this art form to West Michigan. Michael D. Loughman Clarice Geels * ◊ Arend & Nancy Lubbers President Joan F. Gillett † Joan Lupton Roland M. Prevost Robert Goodrich Robert Lyall ∆ FOTO Officers Vice President Tom & MarciaPeggy Haas Barber Marilyn Macklin † John T. Jones,Molly PresidentPorter Worth HagesGil †Davis James Maioho Roland Prevost, Secretary Past President Fran & JoeNancy Hall Douglas June L. Marshall † is more than just the story of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther celebrates the choice to confront injustice not with anger Peggy Barber,Joanie Vice Snyder President Tom C HammondCarol Erickson Chet Maternowski I Dream Treasurer Claudia Hardy † Kenneth Matheson Philip Mitchell, Treasurer CassandraWallace Hayes EricksonEdith McCargar ◊ King, Jr., a great civil rights leader and global icon. Douglas and violence, but with love. This unique retelling of Dr. King’s Nicholas J.Dirk VanderLaan, Bakhuzen † SecretaryJan HeerspinkVirginia * † GearhartKate & John McGarry Tappin’s imaginative work, fusing classical, jazz, Gospel, story will move and inspire audience members of all ages. Suellen * & Tom * Bandyk † Janet C. FranHeindrichs Hall Karsten Melcher & FriendsAlwynDiane St.Claire & Christine Rougier-ChapmanMarilyn Titche ◊ MadelynTom &Reges Miriam Walsh Michael & Barbara Stapleton Cheryl & John Tully Kate Baxter * Marilyn E. Heiss † Susanne Jacobs Ellie Sarafis JuanitaArlene Sharpe Warners and pop musical styles, captures and expresses a number FOTO BoardDavid MembersBellamy Robert * Claudia& Elizabeth Hardy Heys Virginia Neis Richard Stien ∆ Peter Turner Mark & Wendy Wassink Thanks to Opera Grand Rapids for presenting this premiere Suellen BandykAnne Berquist ∆ Jerene Hofman-BodkinsJan Heerspink ∆ Robert & Lois Nordling DaleJoAnn &C. MaryStevenson Schriemer & Guenther Tusch * † WendySarah Stock Watson ∆ of universal themes that resonate with people everywhere, Tom BandykWilliam & Elizabeth Bjork ◊ Linda HoisingtonNancy Knauss Irene Nowak † Jean Marshall Silbar W. &Grate Dan VoorheesLorrie * & Dave * Lee StrodmanKaren L Webster on a very personal level. performance to coincide with the 50th commemoration of Jane Bodenmiller Kate Houseman * & Judy Oberholtzer † Wendy Stock VanderArk David & Anne-Lise * Kate BaxterJudy Botts Craig WassenaarMichael D. LoughmanJulie Otterbein DaveKaren H.& Stokes Lynn Setsma Karl & Jean VanderLaan BetseyTinkhamWhitescarver † the death of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dr. John T.Florence Frey Bouwman † Paul HowlandMarilyn † Macklin Thomas Pascoe & Jean Stein DianeLee Strodtman St. Claire † and TomMark Northway & Denise VanderLaanKathyJoSusan VanderLaan Wold Mr. Tappin wrote and composed the Libretto and Score of Clarice GeelsSusan B. Bowers John HuntingJohn † McGarry Toni Perrine CherylMary Ellen & Sullivan John Tully Margery VanderPloeg † SandraRev. L. Fred VanderZiecht Wooden Jan HeerspinkJohn & Janet Boyles † Dr. Gary & Patricia Hurt ◊ Nancy Wallace Peters ◊ PeterJudge PaulTurner Sullivan Sandra VanderZicht ElaineDarla VanKley Wortley ∆ I Dream while living in Atlanta, reading accounts of the Jim & Cathy Brady Dr. F. AlanGlen Hutchinson Peterson Till & Bernice Peters Paul & Marie TenElshof Ida M. VanDunk † Marti Yarington Kyle IrwinMuriel Burger ∆ Dr. John IacobucciJoanie and ◊ GeorgeGlen Snyder Peterson Ph.D. KarlPatricia & & Jean Peter VanderLaanTigchelaar Elaine VanKley † ArleneGloria Warners Yff † Civil Rights Movement, and speaking with many individuals Nancy KnaussRobert Byrens & Margaret GuenterP. Idema ◊ Tusch Sarah & Erich Peterson Betsey Tinkham Phil & Kathleen VogelsangKarenEllen Williams Zahed † who had been a part of the movement, including members June MarshallJerrod Nickels Win & KyleDave* Irwin VanderArk † Stuart Poltrock Individual GloriaBetty Yff Zylstra & David Baak Celebration Cinema ◊ Lori Jacobs † Lois R Poppen of Dr. King’s family, and some of his closest friends. At the Terri MulliganMarti Childs Sidney J.Lorrie Jr & Cate VanderArk Jansma ◊ Molly Porter * Joanne Arnoys Ellen Zahed Joanie SnyderHarriet Christensen ∆ Gayla Jewell † Ruth Post Kate Baxter core of the story is social injustice—the plight of the poor, Guenter TuschCloe Danford Shaula JohnstonFamily Roland M. Prevost * † Judy Borders Honorary the needy, the orphaned, the oppressed, all those denied an Dave VanderArkGilbert R. Davis † Drs. CourtneyAnonymous & Ora Jones Midge Reges Lois DeBoe Muriel Burger Robert & Lois DeBoer Marcia Kapolka ◊ Peter P. & indPatricia Renucci Yourself Among Nancy DeBoer Harriet Christensen opportunity to experience the “American Dream.” I Dream Joe Kozakiewicz, President, Opera Affiliates Lorrie VanderArkJacquelyn DeRegnaucourt ◊ Suzanne M.Jim Karsen & Judy BottsFSuzanne Richards † Juliana Kartsimas Richard Roane & Dorothy VelascoDan DeWitt & Lisa DeFarrari John &∆ Janet BoylesMichael D. Loughman Clarice Geels * ◊ ChristopherArend & Nancy Edgar Lubbers Joan F. Gillett Nancy & Michael Dodge Earl & CorneliaJim & Kennedy Cathy Brady PresidentLeandro RoblesJoan F. Gillett † Jean EnrightJoan Lupton Lois Loetz Karen Douglas * Birgit M. Klohs Roland AshleyM. Prevost Roberts ∆Robert Goodrich Robert Lyall ∆ Lifetime Members Robert Byrens Vice& JerrodPresident NickelsTom & Marcia HaasRobertMarilyn G. Evett Macklin † Robert Lyall Nancy Douglas † Beverly Klooster Molly PorterMilt & Barbara RohwerWorth Hages † James Maioho William BjorkBill & Anita Eerdmans † Wallson KnackGregory Carnevale SecretaryAlwyn & Diane & Christine MahonFran & Joe Hall CharlesJune Gallmeyer L. Marshall † June L. Marshall Joanne Emmons † Nancy C. Knauss * † Joanie SnyderRougier-ChapmanTom C Hammond Chet Maternowski Celebration Cinema Lisa DeFerrari Treasurer& Dan DeWitt Claudia Hardy † MarilynKenneth Heiss Matheson Stella Royce MEMBERSHIP LIST Jean Enright Joe Kozakiewicz Chuck & Stella RoyceCassandra ∆ Hayes Jerene EdithHofman-Bodkins McCargar ◊ Foley Schuler JacquelynSteve DeRegnaucourt Eriksson & Karen Wolf Tony KroesJohn † & & Joanne Dirk Emmons BakhuzenMargaret † Ryan Jan Heerspink * † Kate & John McGarry Dr. John T. Frey ShellieBill Jeffries & Cecile SuellenFehsenfeldCassandra * & Tom * Bandyk Sandros † Janet C. HeindrichsJoshilynKarsten Hoisington Melcher & FriendsDiane St.Claire MarilynJohn Titche Schuster-Craig ◊ Tom & Miriam Walsh Tom Bandyk Elizabeth Gansen Birgit Klohs Ashley Roberts Anette & Javier Estrada Kate Baxter * Marilyn* E. Heiss † Susanne Jacobs Michael & Barbara Stapleton Cheryl & John Tully Arlene Warners Clarice GeelsPaul & Bridget Farr Mary KroonWolfgang & MihalaDavid BellamyDale Friedlmier Schriemer † Robert * & ElizabethShellie Heys Virginia Jeffries Neis Richard Stien ∆ PeterRichard Turner Stien Mark & Wendy Wassink Bill & Cecile Fehsenfeld Susan & Jerry Kruyf † Anne BerquistFoley ∆ Schuler ∆ Jerene Hofman-Bodkins ∆ Robert & Lois Nordling JoAnn C. Stevenson & Guenther Tusch * † Sarah Watson ∆ Anne Berquist Clarice Geels James Kozakiewicz Milt & Barbara Rohwer Carlos S. Guayara John HuntingWilliam & Elizabeth Bjork ◊ Linda Hoisington ShaulaIrene Johnston Nowak † Marshall W. Grate Lorrie * & Dave * Karen L Webster Clint & Carolyn Fereday Mary Esther Lee Jane BodenmillerJohn Schuster-CraigKate ∆Houseman * & Judy Oberholtzer † Wendy Stock VanderArk David & Anne-Lise * Susan Bowers Joan Gillett Joe Kozakiewicz & Jennell Challa Abraham & Anne Rossi Stephen HoyleBarbara Fisk Mark LewisWin * & & Kyle IwrinJudy BottsJuanita Sharpe Craig Wassenaar SuzanneJulie Karsen Otterbein Karen H. Stokes Karl Opera& Jean VanderLaan Grand RapidsWhitescarver Staff † Florence Bouwman † Paul Howland † Thomas Pascoe & Jean Stein Lee Strodtman † Mark & Denise VanderLaan Susan Wold Vija Bowles Fran Hall Mary Kroon Alwyn & Chris Rougier-Chapman Dr. Gary andDr. JohnPatricia Frey * Hartman-Hurt ◊ ChristineJohn Wassenaar T Jones † &Susan Nicholas B.Jean Bowers Silbar J. & VanderLaan DanJohn Voohees Hunting † Birgit M.Toni PerrineKlohs Mary Ellen Sullivan MargeryAnne VanderPloeg Berquist † Rev. Fred Wooden Dr. John IacobucciCharles Gallmeyer Lois Loetz ∆ John & GeorgeJanet Boyles Snyder † † Dr. Gary & Patricia MichaelHurt ◊ Nancy Kopinski Wallace Peters ◊ Judge Paul Sullivan SandraKate VanderZicht Folkert Darla Wortley ∆ Cathy Brady June Hall Nancy Lubbers Margaret Ryan Michael D.Bill Loughman & Nella † KennedyJim & CathyJoanie Brady Snyder †Dr. F. Alan Hutchinson Till & Bernice Peters Paul & Marie TenElshof Ida M. VanDunk † Marti Yarington Mary Ellen Gase * Muriel Burger ∆ * Dr. John Iacobucci ◊ Glen Peterson Ph.D. Patricia & Peter Tigchelaar Elaine VanKley † Gloria Yff † Margaret P. Idema Wallson & RebeccaRobert Byrens Knack & Margaret P. Idema ◊Tony KroesSarah & Erich Peterson Betsey Tinkham Phil &Angela Kathleen Vogelsang Freier Ellen Zahed † John G. & Claire Bryson Cassandra Hayes Kenneth Matheson Diane St. Claire & Tom Northway Sidney J. Jr. & Cate Jansma Joe KozakiewiczJerrod Nickels Win & Kyle* Irwin Joan† LuptonStuart Poltrock Maestro James BettyMeena Zylstra & David Baak Celebration Cinema ◊ Lori Jacobs † Lois R Poppen Valerie Burhans Donna Hecker Maestro James Meena Carl Strodtman Marcia Kapolka Susan & JerryMarti Kruyf Childs Sidney J. Jr & Cate JansmaSusan ◊ FordMolly Porter Marschall * Ashley Roberts Harriet Christensen ∆ Gayla Jewell † Ruth Post Jessa Challa Janet Heindrichs Phil Mitchell John & Cheryl Tully Marilyn Titche John & Mary CloeLoeks Danford Shaula Johnston Chet MaternowskiRoland M. Prevost * † Sarah Watson Gilbert R. Davis † Drs. Courtney & Ora Jones Midge Reges Arend & NancyRobertFOTO Lubbers & Lois DeBoer isMarcia committed Kapolka ◊ Ken MathesonPeter P. & Patricia to Renucci increasing awareness, David Crane James Helm Dennis & Joni Murphy Guenter Tusch Benefactor* FOTO board member Terri & Larry JacquelynMulligan DeRegnaucourt ◊ Suzanne M. Karsen Philip MitchellSuzanne Richards † Lisa DeFerrari & Dan DeWitt Nathan Hickman Judy Oberholtzer Dave & Lorrie Vander Ark † Benefactor Danunderstanding, DeWitt & Lisa DeFarrari Juliana Kartsimas ∆ andRichard enjoymentRoane & of opera. Suellen Bandyk Dennis & JoniNancy Murphy & Michael Dodge Earl & Cornelia KennedyJulie OtterbeinLeandro Robles ∆ Honorary member Karen Douglas * Birgit M. Klohs Ashley Roberts ∆ Jon & Mary Ann Dewitt Jerene Hofman-Bodkins Thomas Pascoe & Jean Stein George & Dorothy Van de Woude Tom Bandyk◊ Lifetime member Roland PrevostNancyPlease Douglas † joinBeverly Kloosterus!DonaldMilt W. & BarbaraPotter Rohwer Bill & Anita Eerdmans † Wallson Knack Alwyn & Christine Michael Doherty John Hunting Sandy & Mike Ponsetto Pat Waring JoanneFor Emmonsmore information,† Nancy please C. Knauss contact * † MichaelRougier-Chapman Loughman at 616.656.3212. Jean Enright Joe Kozakiewicz Chuck & Stella Royce ∆ Bill & Anita Eerdmans Win & Kyle Irwin Alice Porter-Landis Arlene Warners Steve Eriksson & Karen Wolf Tony Kroes † & Margaret Ryan Anette & Javier Estrada Shellie Jeffries Cassandra Sandros * FOTO is committed Paulto & Bridgetincreasing Farr Mary Kroon Dale Schriemer † Paul & Bridget Farr Hon. Donald & Shaula Johnston Jennifer Potter Sarah Watson Bill & Cecile Fehsenfeld Susan & Jerry Kruyf † Foley Schuler ∆ Clint & Carolyn Fereday Mary Esther Lee John Schuster-Craig ∆ Bill & Cecile Fehsenfeld John T. Jones Madelyn Reges Gloria Yff awareness, understanding,Barbara Fisk and Mark Lewis * & Juanita Sharpe Dr. John Frey * ◊ Christine Wassenaar † Jean Silbar & Dan Voohees Kate Folkert Mary Anne Karmes Patricia & Peter Renucci Charles Gallmeyer Lois Loetz ∆ George Snyder † enjoyment of opera.Mary Please Ellen Gase joinMichael us! D. Loughman * † Joanie Snyder * † Angela Freier Bill & Nella Kennedy Suzanne Richards For more information, please contact John T. Jones at [email protected] FOTO is committed to increasing awareness, * FOTO board member 46 † Benefactor understanding, and enjoyment of opera. 47 ∆ Honorary member Please join us! ◊ Lifetime member For more information, please contact Michael Loughman at 616.656.3212. Great Performances On Your Radio Every Day!

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48 49 50 51 Judy Collins St. Cecilia Music Center WINTER P R E S E N T S

CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY JANUARY 18, 2018 JUDY COLLINS FEBRUARY 1, 2018 GREGORY PORTER FEBRUARY 22, 2018

Gregory Porter BÉLA FLECK & ABIGAIL WASHBURN EMANUEL AX, Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn LEONIDAS KAVAKOS  FEBRUARY 23, 2018 & YO-YO MA SEASON JOHN PROULX IT’S JUST CD RELEASE PARTY SO GOOD FEBRUARY 25, 2018 FEBRUARY 26, 7:30 pm Photo by Shane McCauley. Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center whartoncenter.com 1-800-WHARTON Media sponsor WKAR.

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56 57 The Gilmore proudly presents Male Singer of the Year for the 2017 International Opera Awards LAWRENCE BROWNLEE TENOR

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GRAND RAPIDS: Mozart Overture to The Magic Flute 3075 Charlevoix Dr. SE Haydn Cello Concerto in C Major Grand Rapids, MI 49546 Beethoven Symphony No. 7 in A Major (616) 942-7680 (800) 253-4131 Elgin Symphony Orchestra Music Director, Andrew Grams, conducts With offices in a refreshing Beethoven & Haydn program. The concert features star Grand Rapids, cellist and finalist of the XV International Tchaikovsky Competition, Jenison, You don’t have to be Jewish to Love Jewish Theater Pablo Ferrández-Castro, on Haydn’s Cello Concerto in C Major. St. Joseph, All performances at GRCC Spectrum Theater And Chicago. Thurs. & Sat. at 8 p.m. Sundays at 3 p.m. TICKETS

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62 63 50TH ANNIVERSARY NIGHT WITH THE OPERA GALA

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64 65 May 4 & 5 Photo courtesy: Grand Lubell Photography for Toledo Opera for Toledo Photography Lubell Grand courtesy: Photo by W. A. Mozart THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO

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66 67 January 26-28 DeVos Hall Fox Motors POPS SERIES

Smash hits from a large catalog of shows including Drive Wicked The Phantom of the Opera Service Les Misérables The Lion King Passion. Tickets It starts with an education focused entirely on Students start at Guest Artist Sponsor Series Sponsor $5 $18 your growth — as a thinker, a problem-solver, Forward and as a person. By the time you graduate, you will have knowledge, confi dence, and a FEB 2-3 clear path moving forward. More importantly, DeVos Hall Richard and Helen DeVos CLASSICAL SERIES you’ll be part of a community that’s prepared

FEATURING THE GRAND RAPIDS SYMPHONY CHORUS Contact Chris Young: Office: (616)730-1475 HAYDN Overture to Il mondo della luna (The World on the Moon) MOZART Symphony No. 41, “Jupiter” | HOLST The Planets [email protected] A student performs in GVSU Opera Theatre’s presentation of Ragtime 818 Butterworth Dr SW Concert Sponsor Beverage Partner Tickets Students start at Suite 2 Grand Rapids Symphony Presented in collaboration with Chorus Sponsor Grand Rapids, MI 49504 Mary Tuuk $5 $18 gvsu.edu

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68 69 PROGRAM INDEX

Content OGR Donors...... 38–42 Grand Rapids Symphony...... 68 50 Years of Opera...... 18–19 OGR General Director’s Letter...... 20 GVSU...... 12 & 69 April Reign Biography...... 6 OGR Master Class...... 44 Harvey Automotive Group...... 59 A Student’s First Experience OGR Media Support...... 42 Hoffman Jewelers...... 64 with Opera...... 45 OGR Partner Restaurants...... 42 Holland Litho...... 62 Betty Van Andel OGR Sponsors...... 35–37 Holland Symphony Orchestra...... 60 Scholarship Winner...... 61 OGR Staff...... 25 Irwin Seating Company...... 63 David and Carol Van Andel Family Foundation...... 34 OGR Upcoming Productions...... 66 Jewish Theatre Grand Rapids...... 59 The Prince Conference Center The Prince Conference Center Friends Of The Opera...... 46 Opera Affiliates...... 47 Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra...... 59 serves a variety of needs—from features 13 conference rooms. DU Winter ’18 Events...... 11 Table of Contents...... 3 Lansing Symphony Orchestra...... 56 hosting weddings, retreats, Amenities Include: or seminars, to catering The Giants Awards...... 9 McKay Tower...... 3 GRCC Winter ’18 Events...... 10 services and overnight • Seating for 4 to 400 GRCC Diversity Lecture Series...... 10 Meijer...... 54 accommodations. • Complimentary audio-visual Advertisers GVSU Winter ’18 Events...... 9 MLive...... 61 equipment and Wi-Fi with Actors’ Theatre...... 58 room rental I Dream Acknowledgements...... 42 Norris, Perne & French, LLP...... 63 Amway Grand Plaza...... 8 I Dream Biographies...... 26-32 On the Town...... 60 • Fantastic on-site catering At Your Service Valet...... 68 I Dream Chorus...... 24 Outfront Media...... 58 • Free, convenient parking Bethany Christian Services...... 11 I Dream Musicians...... 24 Porter Hills...... 65 • Opportune location in Blue Lake Public Radio...... 48 I Dream Production Team...... 24 Price Heneveld...... Inside Front Cover southeast Grand Rapids Brewery Vivant...... 55 I Dream Program and Cast...... 22 Prince Conference Center at Broadway Grand Rapids...... 49 Calvin College...... Inside Back Cover princecc.com I Dream Program Notes...... 33 The Prince Conference Center Centennial Securities R&A Water Features 616.526.7200 | 866.526.7200 offers 69 overnight rooms. I Dream Synopsis...... 23 Company Inc...... 58 and Landscaping...... 67 1800 East Beltline SE, Grand Rapids Amenities Include: Metropolitan Opera Calvin College...... 8 Rod Lowe Piano Service...... 55 • Complimentary hot and cold National Council Auditions...... 43 Circle Theatre...... 57 Royce Rolls Ringer Co...... 56 continental breakfast MLK Celebration Program...... 5 Consumers Energy...... 8 Ruth’s Chris Steak House...... 55 • On-site fitness center and access MLK Celebration Purpose...... 6 Davenport University...... 14 Saugatuck Center for the Arts...... 51 to Calvin College’s Spoelhof MLK Celebration Sponsors...... 4 Fieldhouse Complex Ebony Road Players...... 60 Spectrum Health...... 16 MLK Celebration Team...... 4 Ed DeVries Properties, Inc...... 60 St. Cecilia Music Center...... 53 • Complimentary airport shuttle MLK Inherit the Dream Forest Hills Foods...... 60 • Hairdryers, irons and full-size Scholarship Winners...... 7–8 Sweet Express...... Back Cover ironing boards Gardner, Linn, Burkhart & Flory...... 61 The Cheese Lady...... 60 Night With The Opera...... 64 Gilmore Keyboard Festival...... 59 Warner Norcross & Judd...... 15 • Complimentary Wi-Fi OGR Artistic Director’s Letter...... 21 Grand Rapids Ballet...... 58 West Michigan Opera Project...... 61 OGR Board of Trustees...... 25 Grand Rapids Civic Theatre...... 50 West Michigan Symphony...... 57 OGR Collegiate Vocal Competition...... 43 GRCC Woodrick Center...... 13 Wharton Center...... 52 70 71