The Nevada Chamber Opera, in collaboration with the University of Nevada, Reno’s Chamber Choir, Symphony Orchestra, and new Doctor of Musical Arts program, will present Handel’s “Acis and Galatea” in two upcoming performances on April 20 and 22.

“It's such a great opportunity to see such a collaboration here at the University and to enjoy a full, live production in person!” JoAnna Cochenet, DMA orchestral conducting student and conductor of “Acis and Galatea,” said. “We are so excited to bring these performances not only to the University of Nevada, Reno campus but to the city of Reno.”

Based on an episode from Ovid's Metamorphoses, “Acis and Galatea” tells of the tale of a love triangle between a nymph, a shepherd and an envious giant. Can love overcome rage, jealousy and even death?

Find out in the first performance at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 20 at the University’s Hall Recital Hall. Tickets are available online in advance or in-person one hour before the show.

In addition to the April 20 performance on the University campus, there will be a second concert-style performance at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, April 22 at Trinity Church (200 Island Ave). This Saturday's performance is free and open to the public.

“This is my first ever experience doing an opera and the first time I've gotten to sing as a soloist with an orchestra,” Xander Holcomb, University student performing as Polyphemus, said. “Everyone in the orchestra has worked extremely hard on this production and it’s incredible to collaborate with such excellent musicians.”

“It's been exciting to work with student orchestra musicians from the Symphony Orchestra, the solo singers and cast, the solo ensemble, and the Chamber Choir, as well as several hard-working faculty who have dedicated their time and expertise to this production,” Cochenet said. “It's such an art – so many moving parts coming together. A lot of people at the University have been involved in making this show happen.”

The student cast is made up of Randall Smith (Acis), Danielle Brown (Galatea), Xander Holcomb (Polyphemus), Juliana Carmona (Damon), and Magen Gauthier (Coridon). Additionally, the solo ensemble consists of Allyson Debelen, Sophia Florez, Amber Hurtado, Olivia Ngo, JC Palmaira, Hannah Palmer and Aiden Sosa.

The production team consists of JoAnna Cochenet (conductor), Katherine Parker (music director), Bryan Chuan (rehearsal pianist), Brittney May (chorus master), James Cavanaugh (stage manager), Heinz Denoyo (assistant rehearsal pianist), Jason Altieri (conducting supervisor), and Paul Torkelson (conducting supervisor).