Critic's Pick: 'Fortuna the Time Bender vs. the Schoolgirls of Doom'

When it comes to programming, John Hoomes is nothing if not adventurous. Over the past 30-plus years, Nashville Opera’s esteemed CEO and artistic director has introduced eager audiences to a rather daring blend of beloved classics and lesser-known contemporary works. This weekend’s production of Fortuna the Time Bender vs. The Schoolgirls of Doom certainly falls into the latter category. Featuring music and libretto by the Milwaukee-based writer-composer Jason Powell, the piece has been described as something of a comedic superhero opera. Set in quiet “Anyville,” the campy story finds our time-bending heroine Fortuna (and her nerdy apprentice Joe) doing battle against the evil Headmaster and his musical minions — the dreaded Schoolgirls of Doom. Serving up a vibrant mix of musical styles, it draws from the worlds of opera, Broadway, Hollywood, and Gilbert and Sullivan — with a healthy dose of ’80s soft rock. Hoomes has assembled a terrific cast, including Sarah Antell, Jessica Sandidge, Nicole Heinen, Greg Sliskovich, Daniel Belcher, Ivy Calvert, Bryn Holdsworth and Sara Crigger. Stephen Kummer will be on hand to conduct the Nashville Opera Orchestra.

Nov. 13-15 at the Noah Liff Opera Center

3622 Redmon St.