Hell never seemed like a cool place until Jacques Offenbach premiered his scandalous opera classic "Orpheus in the Underworld" in 1858. Now, the University of Houston's Moores Opera Center brings this longtime favorite back to Houston for a four-show romp Oct. 24 - 27 at the Moores Opera House

Considered a racy affair when it premiered, "Orpheus in the Underworld" revisits the classic mythological tale of the title character and wife, Eurydice. Marital bliss has long been absent from their relationship, and Eurydice has eyes for a devilishly handsome shepherd Aristaeus (in actuality, Pluto the god of the underworld). ). When she is taken to Pluto's lair (which bears a striking resemblance to the Las Vegas strip), Public Opinion (the guardian of morality) forces Orpheus to reluctantly embark on a comic adventure to retrieve his wife.

"This opera is definitely on the naughty side," said Buck Ross, director of the Moores Opera Center. "It also is a fast, funny production that is extremely entertaining."

Many audiences are familiar with this opera's "Can-can," which has become synonymous with French frivolity and sets the tone for this comedic production.

Tickets for "Orpheus in the Underworld" are $15 and $10 for students and seniors. To purchase tickets or more for more information, call 713-743-3313.

WHAT:	"Orpheus in the Underworld"
WHEN:	7:30 p.m. Oct. 24, 25, 27 2 p.m., Oct. 26
WHERE:	Moores Opera House University of Houston - Entrance 16 Houston, TX 77204
WHO:	University of Houston/Moores School of Music