Lincoln, Neb.-The School of Music at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is proud toannounce that the Opera Department's production of the Bohemian Girl won in four categories at the Waterford International Festival of Light Opera last Thursday evening at the Theatre Royal in Waterford, Ireland.

Awards went to Dawn Pawlewski (in the role of Arline)for Best Female Singer, Bret Howsden (in the role of Devilshoof, Chief of the Gypsies) for Best Male Singer, and Brandon Dean for Best Choral Presentation. The show also garnered the award for Best Operetta.

The first Waterford International Festival of Light Opera took place on September 3, 1959 with the performance of White Horse Inn, performed by Gwaun-Cae-Gurwen, a Welsh musical society. Since then, this annual event has evolved into what has been called "the mother of all festivals", hosting societies from England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Europe, the Republic of Ireland, and the United States. Waterford is located in the southeast corner of Ireland and is home of the world-famous Waterford crystal. The Festival has staged shows ranging from grand operas to modern Broadway and West End (England) shows as they have become available to amateur groups. It has also provided a forum for original shows. The venue for the Festival is Waterford's Theatre Royal. Built in 1788, the theatre, which has recently undergone extensive renovations and improvements, is an architectural gem, seating 680 guests on three levels in a setting with an amazing sense of intimacy.

Our thanks to James and Rhonda Seacrest for their generous support and to the Friends of Opera.

10/2/02