Phoenicia, N.Y.
(July 7, 2011) – The second annual Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice, which features world-class musical performances, is set for Aug. 4-7. For four days, this unique event transforms the picturesque mountain village of Phoenicia into a hub of the vocal arts.A performance of Mozart’s Don Giovanni (subtitled) on Saturday, Aug. 6, highlights the eclectic performances. Metropolitan Opera maestro Steven White conducts the Woodstock Chamber Orchestra and a celebrated, international cast performs the comedic drama of Don Juan, the world’s greatest lover. Festival founders Louis Otey and Kerry Henderson perform as the Don and Leporello, and Maria Todaro takes the part of Donna Elvira. Renowned tenor, Barry Banks, singing the role of Don Ottavio, joins the Festival en route to opening “The Verdi Season” at La Scala. Michelle Jennings plays the distraught Donna Anna with Metropolitan performer and fabulous bass, Morris Robinson, as the Commendatore. The gifted young mezzo soprano, Toby Newman, sings Zerlina. World-renown soprano Lauren Flanigan will headline Friday’s “Voices of Distinction.”“The Festival of the Voice is a great opportunity for both visitors and locals to enjoy many amazing performances in a breathtaking setting,” said Ulster County Executive Mike Hein. “It is a wonderful way to enjoy the arts while relaxing in Ulster County’s pristine Catskill Mountains.”
The festive atmosphere – 18 events in four days – takes place at indoor and outdoor venues within pedestrian reach from each other with shops and eateries along the way. Other artists include international Opera star, soprano Lauren Flanigan, Gospel Diva Rozz Morehead, Palestinian sensation Simon Shaheen, and many other fabulous performances including Baroque, Cabaret, Choral and World music. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring a picnic and sip champagne under-the-stars. There are several events for children.. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring a picnic and sip champagne under-the-stars. There are several events for children.
“To have an event like this in the corner of the Catskills is wonderful,” said Henderson, co-creator and head of projects and planning for the Phoenicia Festival of the Voice. “The energy of our performers is infectious. The passion is incredible; these are world-class performers, right here in beautiful Phoenicia. Half of our cast performs at the Metropolitan Opera and you can get a ticket for $25.”
Information
The Phoenicia Festival of the Voice
Phone number: 845-586-3588
Website: www.phoeniciavoicefest.com
Schedule: Aug. 4-7
Ticket information: 4-day General Pass $165; Evening Concerts $25; Daytime Concerts $15; Students 13-17 $5 and Kids under 12 Free (except $5 for Kids Concerts). VIP Passes are $55 Evening and $265 4-Day.
CALENDAR LISTING
The Phoenicia International Festival of the Voice
August 4,5,6,7 – Phoenicia, NY: VOICEFEST, 4 days/18 events/7 venues indoors and under-the-stars. Opera, Gospel, Baroque, Cabaret, Choral, and World music. Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” with Woodstock Chamber Orchestra and international cast; Gospel Diva Rozz Morehead; world-renowned opera star soprano Lauren Flanigan and emerging opera stars in “Voices of Distinction;” Palestinian sensation, Simon Shaheen, Justin Kolb and friends, plus more. Great children’s events. Tickets at 845-586-3588 or www.PhoeniciaVOICEFEST.com.
