Tammy Fisher
Director of Public Relations
La Sierra University
Riverside, California
909-785-2016 voice
tfisher@lasierra.edu
April 29, 2003

Leilani Stahlnecker Kritzinger, La Sierra University performance certificate major, performs the part of the Edith in the University's spring opera Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance. The performance takes place May 3 and 4, 2003.

Riverside, CA - La Sierra University Opera presents its annual spring production, Gilbert and Sullivan's hilarious Pirates of Penzance (partially pared because two scenes have been removed from the original script) Saturday, May 3, 8:00 pm and Sunday, May 4, at 7:30 pm in Hole Memorial Auditorium, 4700 Pierce Street, Riverside.

Directed by La Sierra University alumnus and resident director of the Los Angeles Opera, Eli Villanueva, and the University's Director of Vocal Studies, J. Craig Johnson. This production features full sets, costumes, and glorious singing. "It is a treat for all ages and should not be missed," says Johnson. Tickets are only $5 and can be purchased at the door or by calling (909) 785-2117.

The principal cast includes several La Sierra University students - Carolyn Anderson, freshman voice major from Grand Terrace, CA as "Ruth." Christopher Elston-Hurdle, junior history and political science major from Loma Linda, CA, as "Sergeant." Abdiel Gonzalez, senior voice major from Riverside, CA, as "The Pirate King." Amanda Hall, senior voice major from Lincoln. NE, as "Mabel." Nathan Hatley, graduate student, religious studies major from Walla Walla, WA, as "Frederick." April Manalo, performance certificate student from the Philippines, as "Kate." Leilani Stahlnecker Kritzinger, performance certificate student from Guam, as "Edith." and Travanti Tate, freshman voice major from Escondido, CA as "Samuel." Making a guest appearance with the ensemble is baritone J. Craig Johnson in the role of the Modern Major General.

Alan Rich of LA Weekly and Opera News called the La Sierra University production of Die Zauberflote “theatrically savvy” with “fine singing." And Michael Scofield of the La Sierra Criterion exclaimed, “All Riverside should have been beating the doors down [to see this production],” referring to last season’s Mikado.

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