The uncertain economic times have hit the Michigan Opera Theater especially hard this year; causing the cancellation of some productions and the shortening of other program schedules.
However, a Detroit favorite, "Margaret Garner", has returned this week for several performances at the Detroit Opera Theater.
[I am happy to post this clarification directly from the Michigan Opera Theater: "(MOT)...is canceling only one spring opera production 'I Paglicacci' and one performance of 'The Elixir of Love' to generate additional revenue from the Final Four tournament that particular weekend..."]
However, a Detroit favorite, "Margaret Garner", has returned this week for several performances at the Detroit Opera Theater.
"Margaret Garner" tells the true story of an escaped slave who killed one of her daughters rather than see her returned to slavery. Margaret was recaptured and tried in court. The actual case was instrumental in the discussion of the Fugitive Slave Act and States Rights. The opera, tells the story of Margaret's life before, during, and after her attempted escape.
The Detroit Opera House is home to the Michigan Opera Theater. "Margaret Garner" is the kick-off production for the 2008-2009 Season. Tickets range from $28 - $120; performance times vary. 1526 Broadway, Detroit. 
313-237-7464
. $28-$120. Also 6 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24-25. Gregg Baker and Denyce Graves star in this production.
313-237-7464. $28-$120. Also 6 p.m. Saturday, 2:30 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. Oct. 24-25. Gregg Baker and Denyce Graves star in this production.History of the Detroit Opera House (courtesy of The Detroit News)
The Detroit Opera House, originally opened in 1922 as the Capital Theatre, is one of several great movie and vaudeville theater palaces designed by Detroit-based architect C. Howard Crane. The venue deteriorated over the years until it was closed in 1985 with little hope of reopening. Needing a home, the critically acclaimed Michigan Opera Theatre purchased the building and adjacent property. The owners began the process of restoration, including over 70 percent of the building's plaster. In 1996, the $24 million project ended with an inaugural concert featuring Luciano Pavarotti.
