From an email:
Stafford Opera Troupe, a local arts organization dedicated to bringing opera performance and education to Stafford and Fredericksburg, opens its summer season with four public masterclasses on July 14, 17, and 27 at  7:30 pm and August 4 at 3:00 pm, located at the Maranatha Music Ministries building at 1915 Charles St, Fredericksburg, VA.
Under the instruction of Stafford Opera Troupe vocal faculty from around the nation and the world, each masterclass features performances from musical theatre and opera repertoire by the students of the 2018 Summer Opera Program.
Accompanied by collaborative pianist Oleg Bellini, hailing from Alessandria, Italy. Admission is free. Donations are gladly accepted in support of the Summer Opera Program, a tuition-free training program reaching high school and young collegiate singers.
ABOUT THE MASTERCLASSES
Masterclass I (Saturday, July 14 at 7:30pm at Maranatha Music Ministries Building): Award-winning soprano Dr. Rachel Eve Holmes presents this musical theatre masterclass alongside voice scientist and baritone Christopher Apfelbach. Don’t miss performances from beloved musical theatre works old and new as the expert faculty help the singers explore characterization, technique, stage presence, and more.
Masterclass II (Tuesday, July 17 at 7:30pm at Maranatha Music Ministries Building): Nationally-acclaimed tenor and pedagogue Brett Pardue serves on the music faculty of Lehigh University as the Sametz Artist-in-Residence and Lecturer of Voice Pedagogy. As Visiting Faculty for Stafford Opera Troupe’s 2018 Summer Opera Program, he presents this masterclass creatively exploring student performances of both classical and musical theatre repertoire.
Masterclass III (Friday, July 27 at 7:30pm at Maranatha Music Ministries Building): Decorated coloratura soprano Gyuyeon Shim, hailing from South Korea, joins with award-winning mezzo-soprano Rebecca Sacks to present this masterclass. Under their creative direction, students of the 2018 Summer Opera Program will perform and workshop selections from opera, operetta, oratorio, and musical theatre repertoire.
Masterclass IV (Saturday, August 4 at 3:00pm at Maranatha Music Ministries): A passionate performer of both opera and musical theatre, baritone and doctoral candidate Isaiah Feken teaches as Visiting Faculty for the 2018 Summer Opera Program, helping student singers of opera arias and art song bring their performances to life in this afternoon masterclass. Later, join us for the closing performance of Viardot’s “Cinderella” at 7 pm at Mountain View High School.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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