Two classic operas will retain their glorious musical ambience but are getting bold new looks thanks to the creative forces at the University of Houston Edythe Bates Old Moores Opera Center.

Mozart’s “Così Fan Tutte” and the Houston premiere of Handel’s “Flavio” will take on drastically different appearances when they are performed Jan. 25 – 29 at Moores Opera House.

“Così Fan Tutte” will transport audiences to a pre-World War I environment as opposed to its original setting of 18th century Naples. Its comedic story focuses on two military officers intent on proving whether their fiancées are truly faithful.

“Flavio” transplants the intertwined story of a lusty king, his warring counselors and two loving couples from 17th century Italy to 1930s Hollywood. Joining forces with the Moores Opera Center on this production is Ars Lyrica Houston, the local ensemble devoted to recreating the Baroque musical era through vocal and instrumental performances. Moores Opera Center is not only premiering this classic in Houston, but it’s also offering enthusiasts an advance chance to see “Flavio” before the New York City Opera kicks off its season with its own production of Handel’s masterpiece.

“In both of these productions, certain situations both dramatic and comedic are heightened more clearly through these new settings,” said Buck Ross, director of the Moores Opera Center. “Audiences can see the situations presented in each production in a more timeless light.”

Tickets for each production are $15 for reserved seats and $10 for seniors. For more information, call
713-743-3313.

WHAT:	“Così Fan Tutte,” “Flavio”
WHEN:	7:30 p.m., Jan. 25, 27, 28, 29. 7:30 p.m., Jan. 26; 2 p.m., Jan. 28
WHERE:	Moores Opera House University of Houston Houston, TX 77204
WHO:	Moores School of Music and Moores Opera Center

For more information about UH visit the university’s ‘Newsroom’ at www.uh.edu/admin/media/newsroom.