The Western Plains Opera Company of Minot will present a "soiree of operatic and popular songs performed by nationally acclaimed singers" on Feb. 15 at the Grand International Inn in Minot.
Among the performers who have agreed to return to Minot for this one-time gala event are bass-baritone Chad Armstrong, a Minot State University graduate and Estevan, Sask., native who returns from New York City.
"He has launched a career performing operatic roles and guest performances throughout Italy and the U.S.," according to a press release. "Minot audiences were taken with his booming bass 'Prologue' to the WPO's recent production of 'Pagliacci.' He has gone on to hone his performances and delight audiences."
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This is the “soiree scene” from a prior performance by the Western Plains Opera, “Die Fledermaus.” Kenneth Bowles, executive director, said he feels this type of “party” image goes along well with the WPO’s upcoming “Night of Romance and Song.”
Also appearing will be soprano Kari Paludan, returning for the fourth time from Washington, D.C., "where she sustains an active career as singer and entertainer," according to the release. "Her rich, expressive voice has won her acclaim throughout the country and particularly on the East Coast, where she has just finished collaboration with New York-based jazz specialist Vince Giordano and the Nighthawks Orchestra."
New Jersey mezzo soprano Sara Petrocelli will also appear. The release states Petrocelli was recently named a district winner in the 2012 Metropolitan Opera National Council auditions, and has just completed two successful seasons as a studio artist with Tulsa Opera.
Minot's own Dianna Anderson will perform as pianist, and the evening will feature other local artists and entertainers.
Admission will be a "$20 per person suggested donation" paid at the door for desserts, drinks and entertainment. For more information call 858-3185 or go to (www.wpopera.com) to "keep the Valentine's love alive for one more day."