Special to Iredell Free News

The voice students of Melody Beaty will present “Amahl and the Night Visitors” by Gian-Carlo Menotti on November 27 and 29 in Statesville and Taylorsville. This is a beautiful Christmas opera about the journey of the three kings led by a star in search of the Christ child.

This performance will highlight the talent of several area children and youth who have been working to grow in their vocal development, musicality, and stage presence. It is a rare treat to have a cast of young musicians with the skills and ability to perform such an opera.

A cast of youth vocalists will be presenting this opera for the community to enjoy. James Johnson (9), boy soprano, has been studying voice for three years and will perform in the title role of the endearing Amahl. Sydney Stevenson (18), a budding mezzo-soprano, will perform the role of The Mother. The three kings will be sung by Paxton Dishman (13), a strong, young lyric tenor; Micah Stoppard (13), an accomplished violinist and growing baritone; and Levi Teague (15), also an accomplished violinist and a young bass with a full, deep bass range. The Page will be sung by Liam Burkhart (15), baritone. The Shepherds Chorus will be sung by the Studio3 Youth Chorus of Taylorsville and additional voice students of Beaty’s studio. Piano accompaniment will be provided by Janet Hayes.

This opera will bring the Christmas spirit to life as the audience takes the emotional journey with Amahl to witness the miracle of a selfless gift, his crutch, and discover the importance of giving with a grateful servant’s heart to help and love those around us. 

The opera will be presented to the community free of charge. A love offering will be received to help offset expenses for performance licensing, sets, props, costumes, accompaniment, music education, Davis Hall rental, and scholarships. Donations will be used to cover expenses with remaining funds benefitting First Baptist Church ministry missions.

Performance Details

♦ November 27, 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Statesville

♦ November 29, 7 p.m. at Davis Hall, Taylorsville Baptist Church, Taylorsville