The Human Race rounds out its 2015-2016 season with the 1996 Tony Award winner for Best Play, Master Class. One of the opera world's greatest legends takes center stage as Maria Callas gives three aspiring singers a rough introduction to the reality of performing. During a voice master class at the Julliard School, this controversial personality-now in the twilight of her career-remains fearless as she looks back upon her life-the triumphs and heartbreaks, the egos and ambitions, the glories and the scandals. This biographic drama presents a revealing look at a commanding diva and the sacrifice for art.
The production at The Human Race's downtown Dayton home at The Loft Theatre is directed by Founding Resident Artist Scott Stoney, music directed by Resident Artist Sean Michael Flowers, and features actress Mierka Girten in a long-awaited return as opera's rebellious diva, Maria Callas. She is joined onstage by Blake Friedman, Cassi Mikat and Jeremy Carlisle Parker as three opera performance students who seek to impress the living legend. Flowers and Stoney double-up in the production with acting roles of their own, Flowers as Callas' dutiful accompanist on the piano, and Stoney in a cameo as a less-than-impressed stage hand forced to do Callas' bidding with menial tasks. The preview performance of Master Class is Thursday, June 9. Opening night is Friday, June 10. The production runs through June 26.
Photos by Scott J. Kimmins
Mierka Girten, Jeremy Carlisle Parker and Sean Michael Flowers
Jeremy Carlisle Parker, Mierka Girten and Sean Michael Flowers
Mierka Girten, Sean Michael Flowers and Cassi Mikat
Mierka Girten, Sean Michael Flowers and Blake Friedman
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