'Threepenny Opera' comes to local stage 'Threepenny Opera' comes to local stage (May 18, 2005)

"The Threepenny Opera," a 1920s-era work by composer Kurt Weill and playwright Bertolt Brecht, will open on the West Bay Opera stage on Friday, May 27, launching a two-weekend run ending June 5.

The three-act opera is being staged at the Lucie Stern Theatre, 1305 Middlefield Road in Palo Alto.

Beggars, whores and thieves make up the world portrayed in "Threepenny," which recalls a culturally decadent Berlin between world wars. The opera blends popular song -- the best-known in America being "Mack the Knife" -- operatic parody and social commentary.

In the cast are: Saundra De Athos as Polly, Harold Gray Meers as Macheath, Jane Hammett as Lucy, Scott Bearden as Mr. Peacham, Donna Olson as Mrs. Peacham, Ariela Morgenstern as Jenny, Otak Jump as Tiger Brown, and Noel Anthony in multiple roles.

Barbara Day Turner is music director, and Kenneth Tigar, stage director.

Show time is 8 p.m. for Friday and Saturday performances, and 2 p.m. Sundays.

Tickets are $46, general; and $23 for youth under 17 or students with valid ID.

For tickets or more information, call the West Bay Opera box office at 424-9999, or log on at wbopera.org. Tickets may also be purchased at the Holt Building, 221 Lambert Ave. in Palo Alto.

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