November 23, 1999

VITERBO TRADITION BRINGS"AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS" TO THE STAGE DEC. 4-5

LA CROSSE, Wis.—On Saturday, Dec. 4 and Sunday, Dec. 5 in the Viterbo Fine Arts Center Main Theatre, "Amahl and the Night Visitors" will once again introduce the Christmas season to the La Crosse community.

Originally commissioned for television in the early 50s, this brief, one-act operetta, was composed by Gian Carlo Menotti. The story, presented by the Viterbo Music Department,  tells the classic tale of Amahl, a crippled shepherd; his mother, a poor widow; and three mysterious visitors on their way to Bethlehem. Based on a miraculous incident in the pilgrimage of the Three Kings, the story unfolds through the eyes of a child.

"Amahl and the Night Visitors" will feature a boy from the La Crosse Boychoir in the title role, as specified by Menotti’s direction for the show.

Show times are at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Following the one hour and fifteen minute performance will be holiday caroling and refreshments in the Fine Arts Center Lobby.

Tickets for "Amahl and the Night Visitor" are $12 for main floor and first balcony and $9 for second balcony. To order your tickets, call the Viterbo Box Office at 608-796-3100.