Rediscovering Timeless Classics: Ohio Light Opera Revives Vintage Gems

The Ohio Light Opera, nestled in the heart of the College of Wooster, has been a beacon for lovers of classic musical theater since its inception in 1979. Initially, the company focused on the iconic Savoy Operas of Gilbert and Sullivan, but over the years, its repertoire has expanded to encompass a diverse range of operettas and musicals from both sides of the Atlantic. This year's season was a testament to the company's commitment to showcasing the richness and complexity of these vintage gems, with a playlist that included everything from Gilbert and Sullivan's 'The Yeomen of the Guard' to Victor Herbert's 'The Red Mill' and Lerner and Loewe's 'My Fair Lady'.

One of the standout productions of the season was Victor Herbert's 'The Red Mill', a 1906 operetta that has been delighting audiences with its zany humor and charming melodies for over a century. Directed by Spencer Reese and reconstructed by OLO artistic director Stephen Daigle, this production was a minor revelation, demonstrating that operetta can be just as playful and self-aware as more modern musical theater. The story, which takes place in old-world Holland, follows the adventures of a young ingénue who resists her father's attempts to marry her off to a wealthy governor, and instead falls in love with a dashing captain. The production's use of a wacky comedy team, played by Jack Murphy and Jeremiah Angel, added a layer of self-parody to the proceedings, highlighting the ways in which operetta can be both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

In addition to 'The Red Mill', the Ohio Light Opera's season included a range of other productions, each with its own unique charms and surprises. 'The Boys from Syracuse', a musical comedy based on Shakespeare's 'The Comedy of Errors', was a hilarious romp, with a talented cast and clever direction. 'Damn Yankees', a classic American musical, was a crowd-pleaser, with its memorable songs and witty dialogue. And 'My Fair Lady', Lerner and Loewe's beloved adaptation of George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion', was a triumph, with its strong cast and beautiful staging. Throughout the season, the Ohio Light Opera demonstrated its commitment to showcasing the best of musical theater, both old and new.

For out-of-towners, the trick to experiencing the full range of the Ohio Light Opera's offerings is to visit during the last week of July, when it's possible to see all six shows over three daily doubleheader days. It's a testament to the company's dedication to its craft that each production is fully staged, with full sets and costumes, and accompanied by a live orchestra. This level of professionalism and attention to detail makes the Ohio Light Opera a must-visit destination for anyone who loves musical theater, and a powerful reminder of the enduring power of these vintage gems to delight and inspire audiences today.

As the Ohio Light Opera looks to the future, it's clear that the company will continue to thrive, thanks to its strong artistic vision and commitment to showcasing the best of musical theater. With its unique blend of classic and modern productions, the Ohio Light Opera is an unmissable annual event, and a powerful reminder of the enduring power of music and theater to bring people together and transcend time. Whether you're a longtime fan of operetta and musical theater, or just discovering the joys of these vintage gems, the Ohio Light Opera is a must-visit destination that is sure to delight and inspire.