Every week the Town Crier blog will look back at Seattle’s near forgotten Town Crier magazine to see what was happening then and talk about what’s happening now. One of the largest sections of the original Town Crier was “What People Are Doing,” highlighting things like, “If there is anything in this straw-blowing matter, it would seem Seattle is hungry for music,” and, “it was interesting to learn of the election of Mrs. Agnes H. Anderson to the board of directors of the National Bank of Commerce of this city.” In this new series we’re revisiting the old column and tying it to our community’s current happenings, asking: “what are people doing?”
Today’s entry…
There is an ad on page 11 of the January 18, 1919 edition of the Town Crier highlighting superb productions, coming soon, by the San Carlo Grand Opera Company. “America’s greatest touring organization,” the ad exclaimed, “one hundred people, distinguished American and European stars, symphony orchestra, brilliant chorus, superb stage settings.” On Thursday they were to perform Aida. Friday – Madama Butterfly. On Saturday, Romeo and Juliet and Il Trovatore. Juliet was to played by Queena Mario opposite the appropriately named Romeo Boscacci. The Il Trovatore cast was to consist of, amongst others, Angelo Antola, Estelle Wentworth, and Natale Cervi.
What show is coming soon to ACT Theatre? Romeo and Juliet.
What production is currently being staged at the Seattle Opera? Il Trovatore.
The classic story of two young star-crossed lovers who are kept apart by feuding families is directed for the contemporary stage like never before. ACT is partnering with leaders in the Deaf community to create a production that honors the glorious language of Shakespeare’s timeless play and makes it accessible for Deaf and hearing audiences alike. It will star Joshua Castille as Romeo and Gabriella O’Fallon as Juliet. You can learn more about the production, coming in March, here.
Packed with more hit songs than any opera but Carmen, Giuseppe Verdi’s hot-blooded melodrama thrills with swift action, intense pathos, and multiple moments where singers shine. The cast, depending on performance, includes Angela Meade, Issachah Savage, Elana Gabouri, and Lester Lynch. It is currently on stage at McCaw Hall. Learn more here.
