Based in the state capital of Montpelier,  Vermont Opera Theater features local professional talent in opera, operetta, and original programs ranging from classical recitals to cabaret. In addition to performances, we offer opera workshops and master classes in classical song.

 "Sins of My Old Age"

 - an Evening at the Rossinis at Beau Séjour

8:00pm - Saturday, May 3, 2008
The Unitarian Church of Montpelier - 130 Main Street

4:00pm - Sunday, May 4, 2008
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul - 2 Cherry Street - Burlington

Gioacchino Rossini's comparative silence during the period from 1832 to his death in 1868 makes his biography appear almost like the narrative of two lives - the life of swift triumph as a star in the Italian operatic firmament, and the long life of seclusion, of which biographers give us pictures in stories of the composer's cynical wit, his rapier-like intelligence, his mask of humility and indifference to public opinion. 

None do this more successfully than the "first person" account which forms the centerpiece of WordStage Vermont's latest offering, presented by Vermont Opera Theater.

The Belgian journalist and musicologist, Edmond Michotte, was a frequent guest at the soirées at the home of the Rossinis during the composer's latter years. Having already won literary notice through the publication of his record of Rossini's historic meeting with the composer Richard Wagner, Michotte often took notes at some of the many salons hosted by the Rossinis, especially at their country home at Beau Séjour outside of Paris. He transcribed scintillating examples of the heady exchange of Rossinian wit, musical intelligence and astute criticism the composer shared with musical and literary luminaries of the day.

One such evening was captured almost in its entirety, and is performed here, replete with not only some of the musical "Sins" of this jocular Maestro, written throughout his later years for the amusement a small circle of friends and colleagues, but also including a few compositions from his bel canto contemporaries, Vincenzo Bellini and Gaetano Donizetti.

The performances feature the talents of  WordStage Company Members pianist Mary Jane Austin Reynolds,  baritone Simon Chaussé,  director Tim Tavcar - and special guests mezzo-soprano Wendy Hoffman Farrell and clarinetist Michael Limoli.

Admission is $15.00 at the door OR “Pay What You Can”.

For further information see www.wordstagevt.com.