Original jazz opera to premier at Moravian

A pretty unique performance is taking place this weekend at Moravian.  On Friday Nov. 11 and Saturday Nov.12, an original jazz opera "The Book of Gig" will premier in Moravian's own Foy Hall.

Inspired by themes from the Bible's Book of Job, "The Book of Gig" tells the story of Gig Wright, a jazz musician who has to deal with the pressures of balancing fame and family.  Here is a brief synopsis:

"A tragic jazz opera. This is a story based on the book of Job, Medea, and the all-too-common tragedy that plagues our world. A boy--Gig Wright--is born with a musical gift and rises to fame as a jazz musician. Along the way, he meets and marries the love of his life, and has two children. Gig loves his wife and kids, but spends a lot of time on the road. The wife succumbs to depression, and takes her own life. Gig goes on with his life and career, but is overwhelmed with grief. Not wanting live in a world without his wife, and not wanting his children to be orphaned, he does the unthinkable."

The music was written by Tony Gairo and the lyrics were written by Lou Lanza, both of whom teach music at Moravian.  Professor Christopher Shorr, director of theatre, is directing the jazz opera, Dr. Neil Wetzel, director of jazz studies, is conducting.

"The Book of Gig" serves as a collaboration between the music and theatre departments.  Therefore, it features members of several performance groups on campus:

• Moravian College Theatre Company
• Moravian's BIG Band
• Jazz Combo I
• Jazz Vocal Ensemble

Auditions were held this past spring.  Once the show was cast, the actors and musicians began learning the script/music in August and got right into rehearsals once school started.  They have been rehearsing all semester and this weekend, all their hard work will be showcased.

I highly encouraged everyone to check it out this weekend.  It's such a unique collaboration between the music and theatre departments as well as between the faculty and the students.  It's also a truly Moravian production, since it was written by and will be performed by members of the Moravian community - all the more reason why you should go see it!

Here's all the information:

• Date:  Friday Nov. 11 & Saturday Nov. 12
• Time:  8 p.m.
• Location:  Foy Hall
• Cost:  $5 Moravian faculty/staff, free to students with ID