Curtain Rises on Ohio Light Opera’s 33rd Season Saturday Night

Fan-favorite Ted Christopher returns to play the lead role of Arthur in “Camelot”

WOOSTER, Ohio — Ohio Light Opera opens its 33rd season at The College of Wooster this weekend with a familiar face in a familiar role on a familiar stage. Ted Christopher will reprise his role as Arthur in Lerner and Loewe’s “Camelot” on Saturday night at 7:30 in Freedlander Theatre.

“’Camelot’ was the first musical performed by Ohio Light Opera in 2000 when (Artistic Director) Steven Daigle made the decision to present a production from the golden age of musical theatre each year,” said Christopher, who teaches singing and serves as artistic director of the opera theatre at Penn State. “I was, of course, a much younger Arthur back then, but it has been extremely gratifying to revisit the role 11 years later.”

Christopher, who is back for his 13th season after a one-year hiatus, during which he taught and directed high school operetta at Interlochen Arts Academy, says he and his fellow cast members have hit the ground running during the always-brisk period of preparation leading up to opening night. “Everyone has been working very hard,” he said. “This is a particularly talented, energetic, and creative group.”

In addition to “Camelot,” the company will present Cole Porter’s “Jubilee,” Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Pirates of Penzance,” Franz Lehár’s “The Merry Widow,” Victor Herbert’s “The Fortune Teller,” Leo Fall’s “Madame Pompadour,” and a triple bill, featuring Jacques Offenbach’s “Evening Wind,” and Arthur Sullivan’s “Cox and Box” and “Trial by Jury.”

“The shows are wonderful,” said Christopher. “Whatever your tastes and desires, Ohio Light Opera is providing it this summer, from the romantic, sentimental, and bittersweet ‘Camelot’ to the absurdly farcical ‘Jubilee.’”

Christopher, who will also direct “Fortune Teller” and perform in “Jubilee,” “Pirates of Penzance,” and “Cox and Box,” said that one of the greatest rewards of being an OLO cast member is “the extraordinary opportunity” to perform so many different roles. “It keeps you fresh,” he said. “It’s a great way to stay current, to challenge yourself, and to explore new things.”

As for the season, Christopher says it’s going to be a terrific summer. “All of the shows will appeal to audience members, both young and old,” he said. “We’re honored that the College sees the company as an important part of its mission, and we are very grateful to be part of the College community.”

Show times and ticket information are available online or by calling 330-263-2345.