A Fleeting Animal: An Opera From Judevine ~ This collaboration between Vermont poet/playwright David Budbill and Brookfield composer Erik Nielsen tells the tragic love story of a recently returned veteran (Tommy, played by tenor Adam Hall) and a struggling and misunderstood single mother (Grace, played by soprano Mary Bonhag) in a small Northeast Kingdom town. The characters in the rich cast leap straight from the often muddy and messy roads of rural Vermont life. .; Sunday, September 13th at Hardwick Town House, 4 p.m. Tickets for all performances can be purchased through the Barre Opera House at box office at www.barreoperahouse.org or 802-476-8188. Learn more about special discounts for veterans and students at www.afleetinganimal.com
Set in the Vietnam era, A Fleeting Animal* is timeless in its themes: the harm of individual isolation and the possibility of community redemption. Like all great operas, it has passion, humor, and tragedy. With its earthy characters and libretto and music inspired by French Canadian fiddle tunes, the blues, jazz, and other contemporary styles, A Fleeting Animal appeals to a broad audience, including those who wouldn’t normally attend an opera. This newly revised production is led by Anne Decker as Artistic Director conducting her ensemble TURNmusic and Margo Whitcomb as Stage Director. The cast includes Sarah Cullins, Allison Devery, Johnny Lee Green, Geoffrey Penar, Thomas Beard and George Cordes, and a chorus filled with some of Vermont's finest singers. TURNmusic includes Mary Rowell (Craftsbury Chamber Players), John Dunlop and other top Vermont musicians.
After each performance, audience members will have the option to stay for a talk-back session with David Budbill, Erik Nielsen, and representatives from the veterans community.
A Fleeting Animal had its first run in 2000, commissioned by Vermont Opera Theater. The 2015 revival is presented by Right Here Productions, a group of 11 volunteers brought together by Nielsen and Budbill in May 2014, with support from Monteverdi Music School in Montpelier. Take this great opportunity to experience an opera performed in our historic Hardwick Town Opera House!
For more information, go to: http://www.afleetinganimal.com/ .

*Please note: A Fleeting Animal is a tragedy. It contains scenes that are emotionally intense and realistic. There are four simulated gunshots during the performance. It may not be suitable for all audiences.