UCO to stage ‘Susannah’

March 31, 2006

The University of Central Oklahoma College of Arts, Media and Design will present its production of Carlisle Floyd’s “Susannah” at 7:30 p.m. April 13 through 15 and at 2 p.m. April 16 at UCO’s Mitchell Hall Theater.

Adapted from the “Susanna and the Elders” story from the Book of Daniel in the Apocrypha, this American folk-type opera tells the story of Olin Blitch, a Southern preacher who moves to a small Tennessee town and begins to manipulate and convert a young lady named Susannah Polk.
Dr. Kevin Eckard, director of the UCO opera program, plays the lead role of Blitch. Eckard has performed nationally and at local venues including the Oklahoma City Philharmonic and Lyric Theater of Oklahoma City.

Director Daisy Bristow says in addition to providing constant vocal talent, Susannah captivates the audience with intricate sets including waterfalls and bonfires.

“The sets are extremely visual and life-like. I’ve been extremely impressed with the quality of material these students have produced,” Bristow said.

The production stars UCO students Eric Bradford, Jenny Diehl, Jacob Gonzales, Chris Green, Jeff Johnson, Billy Noble and Rebecca Teeters.

The Saturday night performance of “Susannah” is dedicated to Professor Emeritus, Dr. Jesse Webster, who taught at UCO for more than 40 years. A 6 p.m. reception prior to that performance will be held in Evans Hall. All friends and former students of Dr. Webster’s are invited to attend.

In addition, a vocal music endowment scholarship has been established to honor him. Contributions may be made to the UCO Foundation.

Tickets to “Susannah” are available at the Mitchell Hall Theater box office. For more information, call (405) 974-3375.

Page updated 4/01/06