Mercury to Premiere THE CRIMSON PRINCE OF VENICE at Wortham Center

Join Mercury for the world premiere of "The Crimson Prince of Venice" at the Wortham Center, Cullen Theater, on Saturday, January 10, 8 PM. Artistic Director Antoine Plante takes up the role of Maestro in an exciting new staged work featuring costumed Mercury musicians and dancers from the Houston Ballet. "The Crimson Prince of Venice" is a dazzling duel of musical virtuosity incorporating music by Antonio Vivaldi and Niccolò Paganini. Adapted by Denis Plante from a short story by Edgar Allen Poe and with choreography by Oliver Halkowich, this multi-faceted concert experience promises to deliver a dramatic punch. To purchase tickets or for more information visit www.mercuryhouston.org or call 713.533.0080. Photos and bios available upon request.

As Carnival graces the piers, Venice's gondoliers compete for the title of the best violinist in town, but nobody has ever dethroned the Crimson Prince, an intriguing masked figure (Mercury violinist Oleg Sulyga). During a masquerade at the Doge's Palace, the Crimson Prince attempts to seduce Rosalinda, the Doge's daughter (Melody Mennite, Principal Dancer at the Houston Ballet) - but she prefers the music of young gondolier Niccolò (played by Mercury Concertmaster Jonathan Godfrey, danced by Halkowich). A confrontation ensues between Rosalinda's admirers and they meet at San Michele cemetery for the ultimate musical show down.

Members of the creative team include, Antoine Plante, Artistic Director; Dennis Plante, Composer, Arranger and Director; Oliver Halkowich, Choreographer; Christina Giannelli, Lighting and Set Designer; Barbara Joyce-Evans, Costume Designer.

Founded in 2000, Mercury serves the community by celebrating the power of music, Baroque and beyond, teaching, sharing and performing with passion, intimacy and excellence. Colin Eatock of The Houston Chronicle says: "Even when this orchestra is playing at lightning speed, it's still in full control: Phrases are neatly shaped and emphasized with intelligent, dynamic contrast...never forgetting the purpose of this music is to entertain." Performing a broad repertoire of music on period instruments, Mercury garners critical acclaim around the world with innovative and accessible performances, domestic and international tours, and groundbreaking music education programs.