Hudson Opera to present 'Cavalleria Rusticana' and 'Gianni Schicchi'

Middletown — The Hudson Opera Theatre will present Giovanni Verga’s “Cavalleria Rusticana” and Giacomo Puccini’s “Gianni Schicchi” on Sunday, May 15, Saturday, May 21 and Sunday, May 22, at The United Presbyterian Church of Middletown. All performances are at 7 p.m. Casts for the two shows include soprano Victoria Tralongo, as Santuzza in “Cavalleria Rusticana,” and tenor Kevin Courtemanche as Turiddu, with Middletown baritone, Gustavo Morales, as Alfio. Kathryn Tate of Warwick sings Mamma Lucia and New York City Opera soprano, Charlotte Detrick, sings Lola. Detrick returns in “Gianni Schicchi” to portray Nella, one of the avaricious relatives along with Kevin Courtemanche and Gustavo Morales. They are joined by soprano Jeanai La Vita as Lauretta and young Middletown tenor, Justin Randolph, as Rinuccio. In a rare tour de force, artistic director, Ron De Fesi, will conduct “Cavalleria Rusticana” and then sing the title role in “Gianni Schicchi.” General admission is $30. Seniors, $27 and students, $20. Children under 13, free. For tickets and information call 661-0544 or visit www.hotopera.com.