UNA Opera Student to Perform Internationally

Jessica Bailey Photo: Shannon Wells

FLORENCE – When University of North Alabama senior and Florence native auditioned for Operafestival di Roma, she did so on a whim.

“When I saw they were performing ‘Le Nozze di Figaro’ this year, I decided to apply because this is an opera I have always wanted to perform,” Bailey said.

And out of the hundreds of students across the United States who applied, Bailey was thrilled to be chosen as one of only 50 participants. Her voice instructor at UNA, Gene Anne Gifford, was also excited by the news.

Gene Anne Gifford

“I have had students accomplish this goal and others after graduating from my studio, but Jessica is the first to accomplish something like this while still in my studio,” Gifford said.

The festival will be held in Rome, Italy, May 28 to June 21. The festival will stage two full-scale operas. Bailey will play Barbarina in “Le Nozze di Figaro” and Genevieve in “Suor Angelica.”

For participants, the festival includes more than just the performances. They are given the opportunity to work in a professional atmosphere and to perform in master classes. They are also given voice lessons, Italian language studies and vocal diction courses.

“Singers who complete the Operafestival di Roma program benefit in a myriad of ways,” said Gifford. “They grow in knowledge, stage presence and poise. They also make important contacts, both European and American.”

Bailey, who is currently touring Italy with UNA’s Chamber Choir, will remain in Italy after the choir returns to the United States to prepare for her roles.

“I am most looking forward to growing as a singer and performer. I am also looking forward to the professional atmosphere and being surrounded by people who are just like me—people wanting to make a difference in this world through music,” Bailey said.

Bailey has been making a difference locally as part of the UNA Opera/Musical Theatre program. Most recently, she portrayed one of the Ladies in the program’s full-scale production of Mozart’s “The Magic Flute.”

“Jessica has been a strong figure in the UNA Opera/Musical Theatre program,” said Dr. Terrance Brown, director of UNA Opera/Musical Theatre and vocal studies. “She is a hard worker and seeks to develop musical and artistic skills every opportunity she has.”

Brown said that the summer program in Italy not only helps Bailey gain experience that will help her as a future professional-level stage performer, but it also helps the UNA opera program.

“UNA Opera/Musical Theatre has enjoyed much success from students participating in summer programs regionally, nationally and now internationally. Jessica will carry with her our name, and we know she will represent the program in the highest fashion.”

MEDIA RELEASE/University of North Alabama/Bryan Rachal