Rusalka's roots

Kitka, the treasured Bay Area-based Eastern European women's vocal ensemble, unveils its new Rusalka Cycle this weekend. This latest and highly original collaborative theatrical project by Kitka offers an evocatively tinged score by the young Ukrainian composer Mariana Sadovska, filled with songs in the lush modalities of Eastern European music.

This Rusalka goes well beyond the source of Dvorak's eponymous opera, and attempts to capture the restless spirit of the water nymphs of Slavic folklore, who lure people to them with their melodious gifts. Directed by Mariana Ellen Sebastian Chang [no relation], it's a fully staged and costumed performance -- but don't dare call it an opera.

Opens Sat. Nov. 12 at the Malonga Casquelourd Center for the Arts, 1428 Alice Street (between 14th and 17th Streets) in Oakland. Check out Kitka's website for times and ticket info.





© 2005 C. Chang

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