“The Elixir of Love” was retold by Sam Houston State University’s Opera Workshop on February 5-6.
Saturday’s performance was prefaced by Director Rebecca Grimes. Grimes said the inspiration she had for the opera came partly from SHSU alumni stories and old yearbooks from the 1950s.
As the lights went down, the audience was transported back to a simpler time and place.
The audience was brought into the world of Jimmy Nemorino, the love struck janitor at a college, who is captivated by the beautiful Adina, a co-ed who at first doesn’t want anything to do with him. Nemorino enlists the help of a con-man “chemistry” professor to help him soothe his aching heart and spends his last penny to buy the “elixir” – which in fact is a cheap Bordeaux in hopes to win Adina’s affections.
“The Elixir of Love” was a comedic rollercoaster of emotions as the ups and downs of an unrequited love played across the stage.
The original opera by Gaetano Donizetti was written in haste throughout a six week period. It resulted in the most sought after opera in Italy when it finally debuted.
SHSU’s Opera Workshop made it just as memorable for Huntsville. The play was adapted from its original Italian version and was retold in a relatable way for SHSU students and audience members to enjoy.