Cal Poly Student Ensemble to Stage ‘Transmedia’ Theatrical Concert June 1, 3

SAN LUIS OBISPO – The Cal Poly Music Department student production ensemble RSVP will stage productions of “Chiaroscuro” at 8 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, June 1 and 3, in the Pavilion in the Performing Arts Center.

Set in the early years of the United States, the production follows some of the country’s well-known founding figures — Thomas Jefferson, John and Abigail Adams, Benjamin Franklin, and Alexander Hamilton — through a clever “what if” scenario. Balancing historicity and invention, the production takes a look at the issues that were and still are very much part of the American fabric.

“This year’s production cleverly weaves the musical style of the late 18th century with other periods as we get to see the effects of the founders’ choices on their future, our present,” said music Professor Antonio G. Barata, artistic director and series producer. “The show also includes characterizations of less familiar luminaries of the early American period, such as Haym Solomon and Charles Carroll of Carrollton, and one of particular recent historical interest, Sally Hemmings.”

The music, lyrics, stage design, acting and singing combine the creative talent of music majors and technical talent of students from Barata’s sound design courses.

Tickets are $11 and are on sale at the Performing Arts Ticket Office from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. To order by phone, call SLO-ARTS (756-2787).

The shows are sponsored by the Cal Poly Music Department, College of Liberal Arts and Instructionally Related Activities program. For more information, call the Music Department at 805-756-2406.

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