‘The Elixir of Love’ to be presented by Muddy River Opera Company on June 24 and June 26

QUINCY — Muddy River Opera Company brings Donizetti’s “The Elixir of Love” to the stage for two live performances at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 24 and 2 p.m. Sunday, June 26 at John Wood Community College’s Mary Ellen Orr Auditorium.

“The Elixir of Love” is a light-hearted romantic comedy. In a small town, Adina and Nemorino have constantly denied their mutual affection, but the arrival of an Army sergeant and a traveling salesman brings about a series of misunderstandings and finally a happy resolution. Featuring sparkling tunes, and the famous tenor aria “Una furtiva lagrima,” this comedy is sure to amuse and delight from start to finish.

The lovesick rural Nemorino is played by tenor Brad Bickhardt, while soprano Penelope Schumate is Adina, the object of his secret affection. Baritone Rahim Mandal is the dashing sergeant Belcore, who sets his sights on Adina. Local artist Steven Soebbing, a bass-baritone, is Dulcamara, a traveling salesman hawking love potions, while local artist Lisa Blake is Giannetta, a local friend of Adina.

The orchestra of local musicians will be conducted by David Galant. The choral ensemble made up of local performers is directed by Jillian Miller. The production is directed by Culver-Stockton College professor of theatre Haidee Heaton.

One half-hour before each performance, Carol Mathieson will give a pre-talk in the auditorium to help people understand the enduring popularity of this light-hearted romantic comedy.

A special dinner has been arranged before the June 24 performance at 4:30 p.m. at Thyme Square Café, 615 Hampshire.

Tickets for the opera are $25 for a single ticket or $40 for two. Dinner tickets are $30 each.

Tickets can be bought online at https://muddyriveropera.org or in-person at Codex Books, 3734 Broadway.