WT Opera to perform new “Proving Up!” opera about Plains-Region settlers this week

CANYON, Texas (KFDA) - WTAMU Opera is set to stage a new opera “Proving Up!” about the Plains-Region settlers this week.

The performance will take place this Wednesday and Friday at 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sunday in the Mary Moody Northen Recital Hall.

“Proving Up!” by composer Missy Mazzoli and librettist Royce Vavrek aims to show the travails of homesteaders facing the torments of the Dust Bowl-stricken Plains.

“The opportunity to sink your teeth into an American opera about a truly American experience has been thrilling,” said Dr. Sarah Beckham-Turner, assistant professor of music and WT Opera director for WT’s School of Music in the Sybil B. Harrington College of Fine Arts and Humanities.

WT Opera says the 80-minute opera is based on a short story by author Karen Russell, whose most recent novel, “The Antidote,” was recently awarded the Bonney MacDonald Award for Outstanding Western Book by WT’s Center for the Study of the American West.

To purchase tickets, click here or call 806-651-2780.

WT Opera says tickets are $15 plus fees for general admission or $30 plus fees for premium seating.