Handel's pastoral opera, Acis and Galatea, follows the ill-starred romance of Galatea, a nymph, and Acis, a shepherd. The main obstacle to their love is Polyphemus, a malevolent giant who also loves Galatea. He's what one would call an ardent suitor, going so far as to murder Acis to clear the path to the nymph. Oddly, she doesn't appreciate this. It's a beautiful, sad tale delivered in the Baroque fashion. Even Polyphemus' furious declaration of intent, "I rage, I burn, I melt," is delivered in a gorgeously filigreed aria. You'll have your heart broken, but it will be smashed by a velvet hammer. Union Avenue Opera presents Acis and Galatea Friday, April 27, through Sunday, April 29, at 8 p.m. at Union Avenue Christian Church (733 North Union Boulevard; 314-361-2881). Tickets are $30 to $52. For more information, visit www.unionavenueopera.com.
April 27-29, 2012