The Asheville Lyric Opera is proud to present Lawrence Brownlee, internationally acclaimed tenor, in recital at the Diana Wortham Theatre on March 3, 2013. Few performing artists posses Mr. Brownlee’s combination of natural talent, expert training, and artistic sensitivity. Brownlee exhibits talents learned from the best, having shared the stage with opera legends such as Renée Fleming and Joyce DiDonato.
Mr. Brownlee’s arrival in Asheville promises to be a special reunion as he catches up with former teacher and black mountain resident, Dr. David E. Starkey. He first met Mr. Brownlee while adjudicating his high school choir. Starkey immediately recognized Brownlee’s potential and served as one of his first teachers and mentors. It is because of this early relationship that Mr. Brownlee is scheduled to debut his American recital tour through the Asheville Lyric Opera, founded and directed by Dr. Starkey’s son, David Craig Starkey.
Other Engagements
LawrenceBrownlee Lecture/Master Class
Saturday March 2 – Lawrence Brownlee will give a lecture/master class at the historic YMI Cultural Center. Mr. Brownlee will speak about his history growing up in Youngstown, OH and reflect on how he went from a young boy living in poverty to an international opera star. Area students will be invited to attend the event which features vocal performance majors from WNC colleges and universities.
This event is produced by the Asheville Lyric Opera and sponsored by Wells Fargo and the YMI Cultural Center. Attendance is invitation only.
Grove Park Inn Dinner with Mr. Brownlee
In celebration of their 100 year anniversary, the Grove Park Inn will host Mr. Brownlee in a private dinner immediately following the recital. The Grove Park Inn continues its tradition of hosting distinguished individuals by housing Mr. Brownlee for the duration of his stay in Asheville.
Tickets
Attendance at the community masterclass is by invitation only. If you would like to recommend a middle or high school student, please contact the Asheville Lyric Opera at 828-236-0670.
Tickets to the recital may be purchased through the Diana Wortham Theatre Box Office at 828-257-4530; dinner reservations at the Grove Park Inn can be arranged by the Asheville Lyric Opera. The Grove Park Inn Dinner includes admission to the recital.