Featuring opera scenes and songs from the Italian bel canto tradition, A Country Store Opera showcases the talents of 14 Vermont teen singers from 10 different schools. The original story, written by YOC founder Sarah Cullins, takes place in the local country store of the fictional town of Venice, Vermont. You will meet Addie, the young store owner, Nemo, the townie who is in love with her, Duke, the moonshine kombucha brewer, Bella, the shepherdess who sells fruits and flowers at the farmer’s market, Johnny and Janet, the siblings who work at the store, Alma, their widowed aunt, Mark and Joe, the high school seniors who just came back from a trip abroad to Italy, Tessa and Vicky, the high school girls who are fascinated by their tales of the “real” Venice, and finally, Kat and Tabby, two formerly cranky goth NYC teens who moved to VT during the pandemic and ultimately adopted Vermont as their home. With support and product donation from local businesses such as Vermont Flannel, Vermont Smoke and Cure and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company, this production celebrates Vermont traditions, Vermont products and Vermont talent! Led from the piano by YOC Music Director Mary Jane Austin.

Learn more about our Youth Opera Program here.

This event is made possible as a part of Stowe Performing Arts’ Noon Music in May series.

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CAST:

Bea Antos-Ketcham, homeschool community

Neve Bruno, Stowe High School

Emma Cerutti, Norwich University

Ambrose Cusick, Burlington High School

Momo Cusick, Burlington High School

Siena DeMink, Burlington High School

Lex Leikin, Montpelier High School

Elsie Pawul, U32 High School

Celeste Pullis, Essex High School

Nathan Stefani, Middlebury High School

and special guests

Jared Vigue, OCM Young Artist Program

Nessa Rabin, OCM Local Ensemble