David Templeton, Associate Professor of Voice/Opera, directs two one-act operas featuring talented voice majors from the College’s Department of Music. He describes the event as “a very powerful production ranging from the uproarious comedy of ‘The Old Maid and the Thief’ to the gripping sorrow of ‘Suor Angelica.’”

Gian Carlo Menotti’s “The Old Maid and the Thief” is a twisted tale of morals and evil womanly power. A handsome beggar takes up lodging in the home of a middle-aged spinster and her young servant. Infatuation overcomes the women, which begins a series of questionable decisions. Commissioned by the National Broadcasting Company (NBC), the opera was among the first written specifically for the radio and premiered in 1939.

Giacomo Puccini’s “Suor Angelica,” translated as “Sister Angelica,” is a one-act opera that is part of the trio of operas known as trittico or Triptych. The story begins with scenes depicting typical life in the convent, yet takes a quick shift after the nuns begin to discuss their greatest desires.

The production will take place at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, January 30 and at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, February 1 at the Recital Hall in the Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for College of Charleston students. Tickets will be available at the door (cash and checks only). Tickets also can be purchased online. For more information, visit music.cofc.edu/concerts/ensembles.