FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 19, 2004

CONTACT: Ann K. Cravero, (515) 271-3847, ann.cravero@drake.edu

DRAKE TO PRESENT 'THE TENDER LAND' BY AARON COPLAND

Drake University Opera Theatre will present "The Tender Land" by Aaron Copland at 8 p.m. Friday, April 2, and Saturday, April 3, in the Performing Arts Hall in the Harmon Fine Arts Center, 25th Street and Carpenter Avenue.

"The Tender Land" is Copland's only major operatic undertaking, and was written specifically for younger singers. Copland wrote the opera between 1952 and 1954, during the period that he also composed such well-known works as "Appalachian Spring," "Rodeo" and "Billy the Kid."

"This opera takes place in the heartland of America, with music in the American vein," said Ann K. Cravero, musical director and visiting assistant professor of voice at Drake. "Copland intended for this opera to be performed by young people and it has a lot more in common with musical theater than grand opera."

"The Tender Land" was inspired by James Agee's novel "Let Us Now Praise Famous Men" with photographs by Walker Evans. Set in the 1940s, "The Tender Land" tells the story of a rural Midwest family whose world is focused on the high school graduation of Laurie, the eldest daughter. The first in her family to graduate from high school, Laurie must decide what to do with the rest of her life -- stay on the farm or go where the grass looks greener. Her decision is complicated when she falls in love with a visiting young man who has told her of a larger life.

Drake's production will feature the Drake Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John Canarina, director of orchestral activities at Drake.

Tickets, which are $12 for general admission and $6 for students, are available at the door and at the Drake Fine Arts Box Office, (515) 271-3841.