51¸£ÀûÉç music student lands professional opera role
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—Clare Regan, a fourth-year vocal performance and music education student in Western Michigan University's School of Music, will perform the role of Princess Margaret in Opera Grand Rapids' upcoming production of "The Student Prince."
After representing 51¸£ÀûÉç and placing second in Opera Grand Rapids' collegiate vocal competition last November, Regan was identified as a local emerging artist and was later called upon when Opera Grand Rapids found itself in need of a soprano.
"Of course I said yes right away," Regan said of the exciting invitation from Opera Grand Rapids.
An enriching experience
From perfecting a waltz scene to working alongside accomplished actors and vocalists, rehearsing with Opera Grand Rapids has been an enriching experience for Regan as a student and aspiring professional.
"I can’t wipe the smile off my face" she said. "Working with these people has probably been the coolest thing for me. I'm so grateful."
Regan, who studies under the instruction of Dr. Kenneth Prewitt, will continue to exercise her vocal chords and passion for music education this summer as a section leader with 51¸£ÀûÉç's Seminar Music Camp.
Performances of "The Student Prince" are June 9 and 10 at 7:30 p.m. and June 12 at 3 p.m. at St Cecilia Music Center. Tickets are $28 and $42, and student tickets are just $5. To learn more, visit .
About "The Student Prince"
The longest-running Broadway show of the 1920s, "The Student Prince" is a popular, lighthearted operetta set in a Heidelberg biergarten. With staging and scenery celebrating the prized West Michigan beer culture, a prince must decide between his obligation to marry Princess Margaret and his new love: a barmaid on his college campus.
About Opera Grand Rapids
In operation since 1967, Opera Grand Rapids is the longest-running professional opera company in Michigan. Located in the heart of West Michigan, Opera Grand Rapids' productions are produced and presented locally. For its productions, Opera Grand Rapids engages some of the world's most talented artists, stage directors, conductors, choreographers, set designers, costume designers and others, in addition to the regional Grand Rapids Symphony Orchestra, and Opera Grand Rapids Chorus and Children's Chorus.
For more news, arts and events, visit wmich.edu/news.