Nashville Opera is kicking off the new year with a rip-roaring classic — Puccini’s The Girl of the Golden West (La Fanciulla del West). Based on the 1905 play by David Belasco, this unique work tells the story of Minnie, a strong-willed heroine who runs the saloon in a rough-and-tumble mining camp during the California Gold Rush. Taking on themes of love, loyalty and redemption, it’s something of a spaghetti Western for opera lovers. Dean Williamson will be on hand to lead the Nashville Opera Orchestra, and acclaimed soprano Kara Shay Thomson will make her company debut in the coveted role of Minnie. But I’m especially eager to check out Jessica Mueller’s beautifully detailed and culturally informed costumes, which promise to reflect Northern California’s rich Indigenous history and culture. Nashville Opera actually partnered with Mueller — an associate professor at Belmont and director of the university’s bachelor of fine arts production design program — to offer valuable hands-on experience to current students and recent alumni, while reinforcing the opera’s ongoing commitment to working with local universities. “Jessica’s attention to detail and creative eye bring so much to our productions,” says John Hoomes, Nashville Opera’s CEO and artistic director. “The Nashville Opera loves utilizing the great talent in our community, and we are proud to continue our partnership with Belmont and their extremely accomplished arts departments.”
Jan. 22-23 at Belmont University’s Fisher Center
2020 Belmont Blvd.
