The music department at Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) will present Gian Carlo Menotti’s "The Telephone," a short one-act comic opera, on Friday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Auditorium.
The performance is free and open to the public.
"The Telephone" is a lighthearted exploration of how modern distractions — specifically the telephone — can interfere with meaningful communication. The opera features senior Logan Davis, who is also directing, and sophomore Madigan Kennedy. They will be accompanied by Charla Dryburgh.
In the opera, Ben visits Lucy at her apartment with the intent to propose before he leaves on a trip. Lucy is so preoccupied with a series of conversations on the telephone that Ben can’t get her attention long enough to ask his question. He even unsuccessfully attempts to cut the telephone cord when she leaves the room.
Eventually, Ben leaves to catch his train without proposing, so he tries one last time — this time by calling Lucy from a telephone booth on the street. He manages to propose, and she accepts. Then the two share in a romantic duet over the phone. The opera concludes with Lucy making sure Ben remembers her phone number.
To learn more about the MVNU Music Department, visit: mvnu.edu/music.
MVNU is a private, four-year, intentionally Christian teaching university for traditional age students, graduate students, and working adults. With a 327-acre main campus in Mount Vernon, Ohio, MVNU emphasizes academic excellence, spiritual growth, and service to community and church. MVNU offers an affordable education both in-seat and online to nearly 2,100 students from 22 states and 21 foreign countries.
