Visits to the Cape in the summertime typically include visiting the local beaches, enjoying the delicious local fare, maybe taking in a little golf, and delighting in some amazing natural vistas that have inspired poets and painters for centuries. But no summer trip here is truly complete without experiencing live theatre.
For an incredible 50 years, College Light Opera Company (or CLOC, as it’s known locally) has provided Falmouth and the surrounding Cape communities with color, beauty, music, laughter, tears and entertainment.
Founded in 1969, it has been known as America’s training ground for young artists. CLOC provides an invaluable learning experience for the nation’s up-and-coming young artists while, at the same time, staging exciting, fresh productions for the enjoyment of Cape audiences at its venue, Falmouth’s historic Highfield Theatre. Located in the converted carriage house of an historic estate, Highfield Theatre has been an integral part of the Falmouth cultural scene for a half a century.
The company consists of 32 talented singers, an 18-piece orchestra, 13 dedicated technicians, two box office representatives, two accompanists, two associate conductors, a choreographer, a stage manager, a co-op work director, a chef, a business manager, a marketing director and a plethora of professional directors and conductors, all of whom spend the summer working in a professional atmosphere free of other academic responsibilities. For nine weeks, this talented group sings and dances their collective hearts out, as they perform a variety of week-long musicals, one-night-only concerts, sing-alongs, and specialty shows.
The performers are selected annually from applicants studying theatre across the country and around the world. The members of the company are dedicated to refining their craft under the guidance of a trained professional staff. CLOC is the largest resident theatre company in the United States. The company performs nine operettas and musicals each season and is one of the only summer theatres still performing with a full pit orchestra.
In honor of its 50th Jubilee Season, and in addition to its regular season of nine shows in nine weeks, College Light Opera Company presents “50 events for 50 years!” Throughout 2018, CLOC will hold events locally and nationally, including special concerts, lectures, alumni events, and the jewel of the 50th Jubilee Season – the 50th Anniversary Gala on Aug. 26. There is no greater time to join in celebrating 50 years of music on Cape Cod.
Make the College Light Opera Company part of your summer enjoyment. An evening performance at the Highfield is a truly unique experience. Patrons often arrive early to enjoy pre-show refreshments and conversation on our relaxing patio. The theater, which has ample free parking, is completely air-conditioned and is handicap-accessible.
Remaining July shows include La Perichole and The Music Man, and tickets can be purchased at the box office by calling 508-548-0668 or online at collegelightoperacompany.com. Check out the upcoming August performances, as well!
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