An Abbotsford soprano stars in Heroic Opera Company’s production of The Old Maid and the Thief on June 2 in Vancouver.
Nancy Hasiuk-Lay plays the role of Laetitia.
Gian Carlo Menotti’s one-act opera is set in a 1939 radio studio. Two spinsters, Miss Todd and Miss Pinkerton, take in a charming drifter, Bob, who may not be who he seems.
Producer Melissa Ratcliff says Hasiuk-Lay’s performance is “truly captivating.”
“Her vocal prowess and emotional depth bring Laetitia to life in a way that is tender and hilarious in equal measure,” she said.
The production features a mix of local and internationally acclaimed performers.
Hasiuk-Lay is described as a coloratura soprano – “a type of operatic soprano voice that specializes in music that is distinguished by agile runs, leaps and trills,” according to Wikipedia.
She had performed and studied in Europe, and has been a featured soloist with North Shore Light Opera Society, Opera Opulenza, Opera Mariposa and Fraser Valley Stage.
As well, she has performed with ensembles including Belle Voci, Elektra Women’s Choir and Vancouver Cantata Singers.
The Old Maid and the Thief is performed at the Annex Theatre at 823 Seymour St. in Vancouver on June 1 and 2, with two different casts.
Hasiuk-Lay is featured in the performances on June 2 at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Tickets are $20 to $55 and are available at the door or at tickettailor.com/events/heroicoperacompany/1221061.