Bel Canto Gears Up in HIghlands

Written By: Janet Grantham | Issue: 2018/07 - July

On September 9, Bel Canto will once again treat the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau to an exceptional program by four performers from the world of opera that will include not only opera, but Broadway favorites.  This year’s concert will continue in that tradition.  

The concert will be followed by a sumptuous dinner at Highlands Country Club, giving the audience a chance to meet and talk to our performers.

Dr. Stephen Dubberly will accompany the performers – and perform a solo piano piece – as he has since Bel Canto’s inception.  Stephen is a masterful pianist and accompanist.  His discussion of the pieces performed by the singers always gives a well-thought-out perspective.

Soprano Elizabeth Caballero is a frequent guest of numerous American and international opera houses, festivals, and concert venues.  Her repertoire encompasses staples of the dramatic coloratura and full lyric repertoire, from Mimì and Musetta in “La Bohème” to Donna Anna and Donna Elvira in “Don Giovanni” and Contessa di Almaviva and Susanna in “Le nozze di Figaro” among many others.  In March she sang Mimi at the Metropolitan Opera, receiving an enthusiastic ovation at her curtain call.

Mezzo soprano Elizabeth Pojanowski is gaining renown in opera houses and concert halls across the country for her voice and for her electric stage presence.  She has performed Shelley in the American premiere of “Anna Nicole” in 2013 at New York City Opera.  Other roles include Tisbe in “La Cenerentola,” Dorabella in “Così fan tutte,” Cherubino in “La nozze di Figaro,” and then originated the role of Sadie in the world premiere of Ricky Ian Gordon’s opera, “Morning Star.”   

Tenor Robert McPherson is committed to the bel canto repertoire and is rapidly earning international recognition.  His roles include Rodrigo in Rossini’s “La Donna del Lago,” Don Ramiro in “Cenerentola,” Roméo in “Roméo et Juliette,” and as Edgardo in “Lucia di Lammermoor,” Tamino in “Die Zauberflöte,” Almaviva in “Il Barbiere di Siviglia,” and Lindoro in “L’Italiana in Algeri.”  Earlier this year he stepped in for Javier Camarena as Idreno in “Semiramide” for two performances at the Metropolitan Opera to warm acclaim.

Praised for the distinctive warmth of his voice, clear diction, and exceptional musicianship, baritone Keith Harris is captivating audiences in his performances on both operatic and concert stages.  This season, he returns to The Metropolitan Opera for “The Merry Widow.”  His repertoire includes the role of Papageno in “Die Zauberflöte,” Count Almaviva in “Le nozze di Figaro,” and the debut of the role Sir Plume in the world premiere of “The Rape of the Lock,” Albert in “Werther” and productions of “Faust”, “Werther”, and “Lulu” with The Metropolitan Opera.

Put September 9 on your calendar.  If you aren’t already on our mailing list, call (828) 787-1463.  Don’t miss a wonderful afternoon and evening of great music and great food.