An opera-in-concert of “Cinderella” (“La Cenerentola”) by Gioachino Rossini will be presented by The Bronx Opera Company on Wednesday, May 4, at 8 p.m. at Hofstra University’s Helene Fortunoff Theater.
Favorite excerpts from Rossini’s beloved masterpiece will be performed by the Opera’s outstanding professional singers with piano accompaniment and narration by Maestro Michael Spierman.
While “La Cenerentola” is based on the Charles Perrault’s 1697 fairy tale, “Cinderella,” or the “Little Glass Slipper,” there are some plot differences. In this version the wicked stepmother has been replaced by a wicked stepfather, Don Magnifico; the fairy godmother has become Alidoro, a philosopher and tutor to the prince; and most importantly, it is with a bracelet, not a glass slipper, that the prince discovers his true love.
Director Rod Gomez says, “Those familiar with the Disney version of the story might be surprised at some of Rossini’s changes…and I don’t think there will be any mice! Rossini does maintain the moral focus of the story, however, with the triumph of modesty and generosity over vanity and greed.”
The Bronx Opera Company has had an 18-year affiliation with Hofstra University. This concert performance of Cinderella (La Cenerentola) — designed to be a more intimate experience— will be performed in English.
Tickets are $15, $12 for senior citizens (over 65) and matriculated non-Hofstra students with ID. Members of the Hofstra community may receive up to two free tickets upon presentation of a current HofstraCard.
Children and teens under the age of 16 receive one free ticket when accompanied by an adult paying full price.
For tickets call the Hofstra Box Office at 516-463-6644 Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.-3:45 p.m. or purchase online at HofstraTickets.com. If available, tickets will also be sold at the door by cash or check only, starting 60 minutes prior to show time.
This production is presented by the Hofstra Cultural Center as part of the Joseph G. Astman International Concert Series.
