Laughter in Opera: Physical & Psychological Therapy

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Laughter is the most natural therapy for physical well-being and mental stability. Opera is a reflection of the human condition, and musicologist Lou Barrella will illuminate how laughter in opera affects us. This presentation will explore examples of composers’ prompting of audience laughter via examples of comic and non-comic situations, laughter by characters, chorus, audience and orchestra. As laughter is universal, we will hear examples from opera and song in Italian, French, German, Spanish, Russian and English.

Admission:  Members and Guests