CAST

Laurice Simmons Kennel, Soprano, was born and raised in Southwestern Michigan. She now resides in Philadelphia, PA with her Husband. She received her Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance from Michigan State University and her Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Currently, Ms.Kennel studies privately with Sharon Sweet and coaches with Harold Evans. Laurice has performed a wide range of operatic roles. She has sung the role of Mimi (La Boheme), Micaela (Carmen), Donna Anna (Don Giovanni), Violetta (La Traviata) and Suor Angelica (Suor Angelica). Ms. Kennel has sung with the Opera Company of Philadelphia, New York City Opera at Lincoln Center, Lyric Opera Company Los Angeles and OperaDelaware. Laurice is also an avid recitalist and church soloist. This season Laurice will be making her company debut with Mission Opera as Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun in Griondines written by Kirsten C Kunkle and composed by Sarah Melnick. She is thrilled to take on this new role, she sang the role of Olympe de Gouges in the premier concert version of this opera with Wilmington Concert Opera this past October.