ArtsKSU and the Atlanta Opera present: Bluebeard's Castle

• Susan Bullock
• Michael Mayes

ArtsKSU is proud to partner with the Atlanta Opera in a new take on Bela Bartok's Bluebeard's Castle from director Daisy Evans and conductor Stephen Higgins, together the creative force behind England's Theatre of Sound, that is making its American debut. Typically staged as a psychological thriller or Gothic horror as the lover uncovers the secrets of Bluebeard's past, this brilliant new production centers the story on the loss of a loved partner to the ravages of dementia in a way that will resonate with anyone who has dealt with aging partners or parents.

Bartok’s riveting one-act opera is given new life in this production from England’s Theatre of Sound. In a departure from the original folktale, a husband and wife deal with the implications of dementia. Instead of doors masking Bluebeard’s true soul, the audience encounters Judith’s fraught relationship with her memories and its effect on her husband.

Sung in English in a newly-commissioned translation (with English supertitles), the production features a stellar cast including internationally renowned singers Susan Bullock and Michael Mayes in the principal roles of Duke Bluebeard and Judith, roles they created for the world premiere of this production in London. Players from the Atlanta Opera Orchestra will be featured in a new chamber orchestration.

About Kennesaw State University Department of Music

https://arts.kennesaw.edu/music/index.php

About The Atlanta Opera

The Atlanta Opera's mission is to build the major international opera company Atlanta deserves, with a vision to reimagine opera. Founded in 1979, The Atlanta Opera has celebrated opera for over 40 years. The Opera works with world-renowned singers, conductors, directors, and designers who seek to enhance the art form.

About Michael Mayes

https://www.michaelmayesbaritone.com/