'La boheme' Opens at Bankhead Theater Oct. 6 October 6, 2012

October 6, 8pm; October 7, 2pm; October 13, 8pm; October 14, 2pm.

The Tri-Valley's own regional opera company, the Livermore Valley Opera, presents Puccini's dramatic love story "La boheme." Details are as follows: October 6, 2012; 8pm; October 7, 2012; 2pm; October 13, 2012; 8pm; October 14, 2012; 2pm.

Making his LVO directorial debut with La boheme, is returning LVO favorite baritone Eugene Brancoveanu, who will also sing the role of Marcello, a role for which he received a Tony Award in 2003.

"Eugene's Tony award-winning performance in the Broadway version of La boheme was a key factor in our choosing him to direct LVO's production," explains Elizabeth Wells, LVO's Executive Director. "He is also a favorite of LVO audiences since his thrilling and dramatic performance in the title role of Don Giovanni (October, 2010)."

Also returning to LVO for this performance, singing the role of Mimi, is soprano and Metropolitan Opera artist Marie Plette, who sang the title role in LVO's production of Tosca earlier this year. LVO favorites also include tenor David Gustafson as Rodolfo, (Tosca's Cavaradossi) and bass-baritone Phillip Skinner, who convincingly portrayed the evil Scarpia alongside Plette in Tosca, will sing the role of Colline. Soprano Kristin Clayton will portray Musetta.

Opening Night Gala at Uncle's Yu's at the Vineyard includes wine, donated by Cuda Ridge Wines, and dinner, followed by a dessert reception in the Bankhead Theater. The welcome reception begins at 4:30pm. Guests will have a chance to meet the Stage Director and Alexander Katsman, LVO's Artistic Director and Music Director and Conductor. Tickets are $75, available through Bankhead Theater box office.

Sunday matinees of Livermore Valley Opera productions offer an extra tasty treat with ice cream for all at intermission.

Official Website: http://livermoreperformingarts.org