DIRECTOR'S NOTES

I love the fact that when people talk about Mission Opera, our identity as a company who produces a lot of American opera comes to mind. Our long-standing relationship and expertise in American opera has forged a niche for us in our industry and paved the way for new works, as well as some traditional favorites. One of those favorites is certainly Menotti’s classic “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” which is the first show that we’ve ever repeated. Our first run in December 2019 was a great success and we had an absolute blast telling this magical story.

Audiences can expect a wonderful miracle story of a disabled Shepherd boy who is barely surviving and living in extreme poverty alone with his mother. One cold, winter night, three kings come along following a special star. When the mother realizes that she has nothing to offer them, she calls on the community of shepherds to bring gifts to the kings.

This show was commissioned by NBC Studios in 1951 to premiere on Christmas Eve, as the first installment of their Hallmark “Hall of Fame” series. The one-hour programming requirements (including time for commercial breaks) made it the first opera ever specifically written for TV. In an age where we are often distracted by cell phones and other technology, our attention spans have gotten progressively shorter. We recognize that and want to focus our audience’s time and attention for one inspiring hour to experience the Magic of Christmas. Open your hearts and minds and be transported to a time long ago in a place far away and let your imagination run wild with delight. We hope you enjoy our production today and please help us grow by telling your friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors about the magic you witnessed on stage.

On with the show,

Dr. Joshua R. Wentz

Artistic Director & Founder