Augusta University Opera to Present Speed Dating Tonight! at Maxwell Theatre

By Lena Garrard | Staff writer

Looking for a unique way to spend your weekend? The Augusta University Opera will present “Speed Dating Tonight!” at Maxwell Theatre on Saturday, March 22, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, March 23, at 3 p.m. Admission is free for students, faculty, and staff.

Written by Michael Ching, conceived by Dean Anthony, and directed by Courtney Kalbacker, this one-act comic opera features a cast of nine quirky speed daters searching for human connection at a piano bar.

According to Kalbacker, who serves as director of opera and assistant professor of music (voice) at Augusta University, the characters try to look past their eccentricities—such as “I’m really normal,” “I’m an origami designer,” or “I have a food truck”—to find their perfect match.

Kalbacker encourages students to attend the opera, whether with friends, a date, or a mate.

“Not only is this a great show for entertainment, featuring amazing vocals, beautiful visuals, and a fun story, but it also offers students a chance to experience a high-quality production that explores the need for all of us to connect with others,” Kalbacker said.

Speed Dating Tonight! is made up of short vignettes that provide glimpses into each character’s life, flaws, and desires. Since its debut in 2013, it has been staged more than 120 times around the world.

For those unfamiliar with opera, Kalbacker explains that “American opera sounds somewhat like musical theater but has a wider range of sound possibilities and a variety of singing styles.”

While opera has a rich history, many people still think of it as an outdated Italian art form. However, Kalbacker points out that modern American opera is enjoying a resurgence in popularity.

“I’ve been an opera director for 20 years, and I love it because it allows a diverse group of artists—musicians, visual artists, and actors—to collaborate and tell a compelling story,” Kalbacker said. “It’s been a joy to see my students’ characters come to life on stage—whether they’re sassy, sweet, silly, or everything in between. These students are having a blast preparing for the show, and I can’t wait to see them shine.”

Don't miss this hilarious and heartwarming event!

Contact Lena Garrard at legarrard@augusta.edu.