Edgar Allan Poe investigated, celebrated in triple bill of weekend events in Modesto
Opera Modesto celebrates author Edgar Allan Poe with a variety of weekend events and performances.
It marks the fourth year of the company’s Story Into Song Literacy Initiative, according to a press release from Opera Modesto, and features two one-act operas based on the writing of Poe. Performances are set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 14-15.
In addition, there will be “Poe’s Pub — a Frightfully Fun Fundraiser for Youth Literacy” on Friday, Jan. 13, and a Modesto Poe Con, also Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 14-15.
All of the events are being held at the State Theatre in downtown Modesto.
Opera Modesto will perform a double bill of two one-act operas, “Tell Tale Heart” and “Annabel.”
“Tell Tale Heart” is based on the story by Poe in which a murderer’s mind turns to madness, according to the release.
It was composed by Stewart Copeland, drummer of rock band The Police, who “creates a complex world of characters to tell this evocative story in an operatic setting,” the release said.
“Tell Tale Heart” stars Jason Detwiler as the murderer and Chad Somers as the victim. The performance is directed by I-Chen Wang.
“It is exciting to produce the music of renowned rock drummer Stewart Copeland ... whose passion is composing classical operas,” Opera Modesto General Director Roy Stevens said in the release.
“Annabel” is inspired by Poe’s poem “Annabel Lee” and was commissioned by Opera Modesto from composer Deborah Kavasch and librettist Linda Bunney-Sarhad.
It’s “a haunting tale of love so strong that it lasts beyond the grave,” the release said. “Annabel” stars Oakdale native Darby Schmidt in the title role, with Chad Somers as Lover and Jason Detwiler as Kinsman. It’s directed by Annalisa Winberg.
Stevens said the company is “so proud to present the second opera we have commissioned from the Stanislaus County-based pair — CSU Stanislaus’ professor Dr. Deborah Kavasch and librettist/lyricist Linda Bunney-Sarhad.”
The operas will be conducted by Liisa Dávila.
Other celebrations set
The “destination weekend” of Poe literature and opera-related activities looks to bring new people to reading and opera, as well as to businesses in downtown Modesto, according to the release.
The Poe’s Pub event includes Poe-themed appetizers, cocktails, games, music and more. There will be a screening of Roger Corman’s 1963 movie “The Raven.”
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. at the State Theatre, 1307 J St., Modesto. Tickets are $50 in advance, $60 at the door. Proceeds benefit Opera Modesto’s Youth Literacy and Arts Engagement programs. Tickets are available at thestate.org.
“Modesto Poe Con, A Literary Autopsy of Edgar Allan Poe” offers a family-friendly weekend investigating and celebrating the life, works and legacy of Poe, according to the release. There will be six 45-minute sessions, three on Saturday and three on Sunday, presented by educators, authors, professionals and Poe aficionados.
The Poe Con is set for 9 a.m. to noon at the State. Tickets are $20 for students, $30 general and include entry to all six sessions.
The operas “Tell Tale Heart” and “Annabel” will be performed at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $20 for students, $25-$40 general.
The operas are accessible for all, according to the release, and will be sung in English, with English supertitles.
For more information and to purchase tickets go to www.thestate.org or call 209-527-4697.
Stevens said in the release that the weekend will be a combination of music and singing, horror, discussions and food and drink. “Come one, come all. Prepared to be moved by beauty and horrified by Poe.”
This story was originally published January 10, 2023 at 9:00 AM.
