UCF Symphony Orchestra: When in Rome

The UCF Symphony Orchestra shines under the baton of guest conductor Eric Jacobsen, performing Dvořák’s Carnival Overture and Respighi’s Pines of Rome. Singers from Orlando Opera join for a preview performance of UCF professor of composition Alex Burtzos’ new opera, HE Who Gets Slapped. Selected songs will be performed.

HE Who Gets Slapped is an opera in development by Alex Burtzos and librettist Daniel Neer, based on Leonid Andreyev’s 1915 play of the same name. The opera’s action revolves around a mysterious stranger, known only as “HE,” who works as a clown at a small circus in the early part of the 20th century. In addition to lengthy runs on Broadway and London’s West End, Andreyev’s tale has been adapted into a Russian silent film (1916), an MGM feature (1924), a novel (1924) and more. This operatic setting is testament to its continuing timeless appeal.

Each spring, UCF brings its best and brightest artists to Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for a large-scale celebration of creativity. This year, UCF Celebrates the Arts turns the spotlight on the intersection of arts and technology, and showcases our students, faculty and alumni through dance, concerts, cabaret, lectures and discussions, film, chamber music, an expanded visual arts presence and more. Fantastic possibilities lie ahead at UCF Celebrates the Arts 2023!