Lauren Flanigan, Kim Josephson to Star in Premiere of Stephen Schwartz Opera, Séance on a Wet Afternoon

Opera Santa Barbara will present the world premiere of Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz’s opera, Séance on a Wet Afternoon, which will debut at The Granada, September 26-October 4. The cast will be headed by New York City Opera star Lauren Flanigan (Myra), baritone Kim Josephson (Bill), Hila Plitman (Mrs. Clayton), John Kimberling (Mr. Clayton), and Craig Hart (Inspector Watts).

The work is based on a 1964 film by Bryan Forbes and novel by Mark McShane. The opera tells the story of Myra, a “medium” who together with her husband, Bill, attempts to carry out The Plan that will make her famous. The Plan is inspired by her deceased son, Arthur, and involves the kidnapping of a young girl who Myra — through her psychic powers — will find.

Scott Schwartz will direct the production, with music direction by Valery Ryvkin and choreography by Matt Williams. The creative team will also include Heidi Ettinger (set), David Lander (lighting), Alejo Vietti (costumes).

The cast will also include Benjamin Brecher, Caroline Worra, Gabriel Manro, Michael Marcotte, Kelsey Lee Smith (Adriana), and Aaron Refvem (Arthur). The ensemble chorus will feature Deborah Bertling, Danielle Bond, Julie Davis, Eric Carampton, Andrew Fernando, Darla Mattern, Jesse Merlin, Victoria Robertson, Tom Hurd, Jennifer Wallace, and Bray Wilkins.

For information, visit www.seancetheopera.com.