Rarely Performed Opera by Aaron Copland Presented in Collaboration at WMU

Kalamazoo, MI – Marking a returning collaboration between the WMU School of Music and the WMU Department of Theatre, The University Theatre welcomes Aaron Copland’s rarely performed opera The Tender Land to the Shaw Theatre for a four performance run February 16 through 19.

Through the music of Aaron Copland, The Tender Land tells the picturesque story of a soon-to-be graduate who falls in love with an ill-reputed drifter staying with her family. Searching for freedom, commitment, and adventure, both yearn to be together; but delicate circumstances loom close as this coming-of-age tale unfolds in the heartland of America.

This all student cast is under the direction of Alice Pierce and accompanied by a creative team including Dr. David Little (Music Director), Deb Norton (Choreographer), Greg Roehrick (Scenic Advisor), Justin Humphres (Sound Designer), and Matt Knewston (Lighting Designer).

Performances will run February 16 through February 18 at 8pm, and February 19 at 2pm, in the Gilmore Theatre Complex’s Shaw Theatre. Seating is reserved.

An opening night reception sponsored by Oakwood Bistro will take place after the performance on February 16.

Tickets for University Theatre productions can be purchased online at www.wmutheatre.com, by calling (269) 387-6222 or by visiting the Box Office between 12pm and 5pm, Monday through Friday.  Admission for the general public is $20, $15 for seniors and WMU faculty/staff, $10 for studentsand $5 for WMU students.  Group discounts are available by calling (269) 387-3227.  The box office at Miller Auditorium also sells tickets to University Theatre productions. Additional information is available online at www.wmutheatre.com.