Puccini in the Heartland

One of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the St. Louis area is known as "The Hill", home to the city's Italian-American community. Although the Hill has long been a bastion of stability and tradition, recently it has acquired a new role as a cultural beacon for the entire St. Louis community and beyond. St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church, an icon in the neighborhood for many years, has recently opened its doors to productions mounted by the Winter Opera, founded (and often starred in) by St. Louis native Gina Galati. Recently, on the weekend of March 13-14, Winter Opera performed Giacomo Puccini's one-act knockout, Gianni Schicchi, a beautiful comic story of star-crossed lovers and a curmudgeon's will altered by a clever yet affable impersonator. The singing was joyous, rousing--and, very importantly these days--seemed to raise everyone's spirits right through the vaulted ceilings of the historic church. Special thanks indeed must go to the priests and lay leaders of St. Ambrose Church, since Puccini does poke a bit of fun at religiosity. But I'm sure everyone present was filled with gratitude to the work of the church in sharing the music of one of Italy's best-loved sons--a great gift from a nation that has given the world so much.

Opera right in the neighborhood is a wonderful experience, and, although perhaps recent in the U.S., opera has always been a part of daily life in Italy. Many residents of the Hill simply walked to the performance. And afterwards, there was no shortage of fine restaurants to cap off the evening. The performers onstage and in the orchestra, along with the crew and staff of Winter Opera, seemed to enjoy the music and storyline along with everyone else. This is a wonderful way to celebrate heritage and ancestral roots.

It must be noted that opera does not come free. Remember, "opera" literally means "the works", meaning that it is a feast for all the senses. These requires money and community support. I would love to see the day when performances such as Gianni Schicchi are free and open to the community. Hopefully we will work towards that end.

For additional information about the Winter Opera of St. Louis, contact its offices at 314-865-0038.

Thanks,

Gary