Verismo Opera Chorus Auditions Moved to Feb. 5

Its Jan. 22 tryout date cancelled due to snow, the New Jersey Association of Verismo Opera will hold its Verismo Opera Chorus auditions on a new date: Feb. 5.  

Lucine Amara, the organization's artistic director, said people who like to sing and wish to perform on stage in a professional production are invited to audition. It doesn't matter if you are a professional, amateur or retired vocalist—if you're interested, make an appointment in advance. There just may be a place for your voice in the Verismo Opera Chorus.

Altos and male choristers, representing all vocal ranges and ages, are especially needed. Applicants should have a rudimentary working ability to read music and experience singing.  An application may be downloaded at http://www.verismopera.org/chorus.html.  

The season should tantalize those born to sing beautiful music: This season, the company's 25th, choristers will perform in Giuseppe Verdi’s "La Traviata" on Sunday, April 6, and "La Bohème" on Sunday, Oct. 19 and 26.  Both operas will be presented at 3 p.m. at the Bergen Performing Arts Center in Englewood.

Under Chorus Director Mara Waldman, vocalists will sing in Italian and explore grand opera through active performances.  The operas will be fully staged and performed in costume accompanied by an orchestra under internationally renowned Principal Conductor/Music Director Anthony Morss.

For information or to schedule an appointment to audition for the chorus, call 201-886-0561. The tryouts will begin Feb. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at 44 Armory St. in Englewood.