Abduction from the Seraglio – excerpts in concert

Saturday, Oct. 16, 3pm – Washington Heights

Bennett Park: West 183rd St & Fort Washington Ave, New York, NY 10033

2nd performance: Sunday, Oct. 17, 3pm – Lower East Side

Campos Community Garden on East 12th Street between Avenue’s B & C

Cast

Stephen Steffens, Belmonte
Heather Bobeck, Konstanze
Jessica Bloch, Blonde
Stefan Barner, Pedrillo
Rick Agster, Osmin
with
Doug Shapiro, Narrator and the Pasha Selim
Chris Fecteau, pianist and music director

Narration written by librettist, Marianna Mott Newirth

Synopsis

The Pasha Selim recounts the story (and lessons) of the English woman Konstanze, who with her servant Blonde was sold by pirates into his harem.  Belmonte, Konstanze’s bethrothed, has finally found her, and works with his servant Pedrillo (who was captured with the women) to enact a rescue.  Osmin, the Pasha’s ill-tempered servant, is enamored of Blonde just as the Pasha is entranced by the strong-willed Konstanze – but both women find ways to resist the advances of their captors until the happy reunion with their rescuer, Belmonte.

Duration

Approximately 75 minutes, with no intermission.  Bring a blanket or chairs and a snack.  Social distancing highly encouraged.