March 30, 2004

Boise State Music Department Stages 'Merry Wives of Windsor'

Shakespeare, Mardi Gras and opera all come together in Boise State University’s production of “The Merry Wives of Windsor.” The music department opera is at 7:30 p.m. April 8 and 10 at the Boise State Special Events Center. Tickets, available at the Special Events Center Box Office, are $5 general, $3 seniors, and free for students and Boise State faculty and staff. Combining music, dance and comedy, Otto Nicolai’s setting of Shakespeare’s original comedy is transported to the present day in the fictional New Orleans suburb of Windsor, La. Windsor’s newly-elected mayor, the lecherous and lascivious John Falstaff, has written two identical love letters that ignite a firestorm of emotion in the small town. Wickedly funny revenge, a battle of the sexes and a tender love story are all brought to life by Nicolai’s sparkling music. The opera culminates in a wild Mardi Gras festival. Produced in cooperation with Boise State’s theatre arts department, this production is a continuation of Opera Theatre’s mission to present innovative, entertaining and user-friendly opera performances to Treasure Valley audiences. -30- Contact Laura Rushing-Raynes Department of music 208 426-1975 Media Contact Kathleen Craven communications and marketing 208 426-3275