Opera Columbus and Shadowbox Live's LA BOHÈME Begins Second Run Tonight

Due to an at-capacity run of Opera Columbus and Shadowbox Live's cabaret-style version of Puccini's La bohème in 2012, the collaborative production will be remounted for a 2013 run tonight, February 17-April 14. Cast with local performers, it will be funded by a grant from PNC Arts Alive, a multi-year initiative to support visual and performing arts groups with the goal of increasing arts access and engagement in new and innovative ways.

"The PNC Foundation has a long history of providing grants to organizations that strengthen and enrich the lives of our communities," said Michael Gonsiorowski, PNC regional president for central Ohio. "We understand that a rich arts community is a significant driver of our economic success, providing employment, boosting tourism and making the region attractive for businesses, residents and visitors."

La bohème is being performed at Shadowbox Live's Backstage Bistro at 5 p.m. every Sunday, tonight, February 17 through April 14. There will be no performance on March 31 due to the Easter holiday.

Admission is free, but patrons are encouraged to make advance reservations by calling Shadowbox at 614.416.7625. Patrons without reservations will also be seated as capacity allows. Any reservations not claimed by 4:45pm will be released to walk-up patrons. A limited number of premium seats are also available for $10 each with a reservation.

This innovative, new collaboration between Opera Columbus and Shadowbox Live is designed to take opera out of a traditional theatre setting and transform it into an immersive, interactive, and highly accessible experience in a casual environment. It provides an introduction to opera for those who have no experience with the art form or who may not be inclined to attend a traditional opera performance in a theatre.

Established in 1981, Opera Columbus enriches central Ohio by educating, enlightening, and entertaining people of all ages and backgrounds through the live music theatre experience, employing a diverse repertoire of creative talent, ideas, and artistic energies. For more information, visit www.OperaColumbus.org.

Shadowbox Live is the largest resident theater company in America. For more than 20 years, this creative team has produced world-class performances spanning the artistic spectrum while always putting emphasis on the unparalleled live experience. www.ShadowboxLive.org

Photo Credit: Stev Geyer