The University of New Mexico John D. Robb Musical Trust presents “Little Jo,” a folk opera by UNM College of Fine Arts Dean Emeritus, John Donald Robb on Friday, Oct. 21 and Saturday, Oct. 22, at 8 p.m. at the Journal Theatre at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
A full performance for nearly 600 students from area schools high schools will be presented free of charge on Friday, Oct. 21 at 10 a.m. at the NHCC, made possible by donor contributions.
The production features conductor, Guillermo Figueroa, music director of the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra, stage direction by David Chavez and a cast of professional singers, including, Peter Couchman, Aaron Pegram, Lina Ramos and many others.
One of two Robb operas, “Little Jo” is based on Robert Bright’s novel, “The Life and Death of Little Jo.” Robb was a pioneer collector of New Mexico Hispanic folk songs. During his tenure as dean of the College of Fine Arts, he decided to write an opera to incorporate Southwestern folk music. Little Jo is the story of the joys and sorrows of a young boy’s life in a small northern New Mexico farming village during World War II. It weaves a colorful tapestry of our state’s history and traditions as told through the music, folk songs -- including beloved Hispanic folk songs such as “Palomita,” A la ru,” BS Bendito sea Dios.”
References to cultural practices, such as the Penitentes, are featured. With emotion running from tenderness to tragedy, “Little Jo” is a rare cultural gem.
Tickets are $25, $20, and $15 with a $5 discount for students and seniors presenting valid ID. Tickets are available at ticketmaster.com and at the NHCC box office, 724-4771.
For more information, contact Alicia Ultan, director, John D. Robb Musical Trust, 277-8967, or at aultan@unm.edu/www.unm.edu/~rmt.