A Babylonian epic for the ages is being broadcast right here on Mercyhurst University campus.
The Mercyhurst Institute of Arts and Culture is showing “Semiramide” in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on March 17.
The performance will start promptly at 12:55 p.m. with doors opening at 12:30 p.m.
The opera has a total estimated run time of 3 hours and 29 minutes, with a single 30 minute intermission.
The libretto is sung in Italian with Met titles in English.
The setting of “Semiramide” is ancient Babylon. Babylon is modern-day Iraq.
The scenes include local colors and the ancient marvel of the Hanging Gardens.
The creators of the opera were more worried about creating a feeling of great legend and wonder instead of presenting a historical accurate story.
The story is about royal treachery and false romance.
Semiramide, the queen of Babylon, is trying to remain on the throne while men are trying to succeed her late husband.
Gioachino Rossini composed “Semiramide.”
Rossini created more than 30 operas, ranging from comic to tragic.
At the age of 37, Rossini actually retired from composing. Even after a short career, he is still very well known.
Gaetano Rossi wrote the libretto for Rossini’s opera.
The conductor of the opera is Italian native Maurizio Benini.
This Metropolitan Opera has an all-star cast.
Angela Meade plays Semiramide, Elizabeth DeShong portrays Arsace, Javier Camarena plays Idreno, Ildar Abdrazakov plays Assur and Ryan Speedo Green portrays Oroe.
As always, tickets are free for Mercyhurst students, $18 for an adult ticket, $15 for seniors and students of other institutions and $10 for youth.