'Porgy & Bess' Dress a Success with Mariettans

Thursday might have been only a dress rehearsal for the Atlanta Opera's production of George Gershwin's Porgy & Bess, but the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre was bursting at the seams with Cobb County dignitaries, elected officials and arts enthusiasts eager to get a first peak.

“I have never been to an opera, so this is an exciting opportunity for me,” said Marian Wallace, a Marietta hair stylist.

As the lights went down and the curtains rolled back, the audience was eager for the opera to begin. The Atlanta Opera did not disappoint for the entire three-hour-and-fifteen-minute production.

“It was a little long, but honestly I really didn’t feel until it maybe the last 10 minutes or so; but it was definitely worth the investment of my time,” said Jonathan Reese, a Marietta Subway owner.

The opera is, in its simplest essence, the story of a love affair between a handicapped man, Porgy, and an undiscriminating woman who wanders into town, Bess. After a chance encounter leaving Bess in a peculiar dilemma, Porgy offers her refuge, and they fall in love.

Atlanta Opera's principal bassist Lyn DeRamus said: “It presents a certain period in history that should not be lost; I think there are elements of the story that resonate at anytime–universal feelings.”  

 The Atlanta Opera delivers an astounding performance nailing the rhythm, theme and mood of the era, a time when life was simpler and the community was more connected on Catfish Row.

The production continues with performances tonight, Friday and Sunday. For information, visit the production's Web site.