Raylynmor Opera will present the timeless Christmas classic “Amahl and the Night Visitors” at Dublin School’s Fountain Arts Building, Friday, Jan. 13 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday Jan. 15 at 2 p.m.
Originally written for television in 1951 by composer Gian Carlo Menotti, this one act opera depicts the story the lame boy Amahl and his mother who are visited by the Magi, on their way to see the Christ child. The splendor of the three kings contrasts with the poor trappings of Amahl and his mother, who can offer only a bed of straw for their comfort. The riches of the Magi prove too much for Amahl’s mother, as she attempts to steal their gold meant for the Christ child.
King Melchior sounds the opera’s basic theme of charity by offering their treasure to this poor family, saying the Christ child has no need for riches or wealth. Amahl, in turn, offers his only possession, his crutch, as his gift to the Christ child.
This act of charity leads to a miraculous healing of Amahl’s lameness; he leaves with the Magi to visit the Christ child.
Raylynmor’s production seeks to encapsulate the Opera’s theme of charity, by asking patrons to bring canned goods and foodstuffs to the performance, which will be donated on their behalf to Keene’s Community Kitchen. A raffle prize will be offered to those who contribute to the offering.
Tickets may be purchased on-line at www.raylynmor.com and are priced at $30 for adults, and $10 for students and children.