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Evelyn: Opera in six scenes

Evelyn

Opera in six scenes

Gene and Evelyn GardnerGene and Evelyn Gardner

In the spring of 2007, the UMD Opera Theatre performed Mroczek's first opera, Evelyn, with the composer conducting. The opera was produced in conjunction with an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program Grant from the University of Minnesota. The production was directed by Calland Metts and featured Megan Habiger as Evelyn, Amy Hagensen as Sarah, and Nathan Herfindahl as Gene.

Evelyn, scene 4Evelyn, scene 4

Evelyn was composed in the summer/fall of 2006 and received its premiere in April 2007. The story is loosely formed around Mroczek's grandparents Evelyn and Gene Gardner (shown above). The role of Sarah was created specifically with Ms. Hagensen in mind. Other artistic partners included Rachel Inselman as a Faculty Advisor on the project. As part of the UROP, Mroczek was able to work with Libby Larsen to research contemporary opera compositional approaches and techniques.