UCO Opera Presents Double Feature 'The Ghosts of Gatsby' and 'The Old Maid and the Thief,' Feb. 27-March 1
Feb. 20, 2026
The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music will present an evening of opera featuring two one-act works, “The Ghosts of Gatsby” and “The Old Maid and the Thief,” at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 27-28, and 2 p.m., March 1, in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central's campus.
“The Ghosts of Gatsby” is a modern opera delving into the inner world of Zelda Fitzgerald as she navigates creativity, ambition and her complex relationship with her husband, writer F. Scott Fitzgerald. Through a contemporary score and emotionally charged narrative, the opera examines the cost of artistic identity and personal struggle behind one of America’s most iconic literary figures.
In contrast, Gian Carlo Menotti’s “The Old Maid and the Thief” delivers sharp wit and dark humor in a small-town tale of moral hypocrisy and temptation. When a mysterious drifter arrives, the lives of two women unravel in unexpected ways, exposing secrets and desires beneath a polite exterior.
“We’re excited to produce two stellar examples of American opera,” said Rob Glaubitz, D.M.A., director of the UCO School of Music and UCO Opera.
“‘The Old Maid and the Thief’ has long been a favorite among opera lovers because it’s such a fun show with memorable melodies. ‘The Ghosts of Gatsby’ is newer and less familiar to many audiences, but the relationship between F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald is fascinating, and the opera brings that story vividly to life.”
UCO's production is recommended for ages 13 and older.
Both operas will be performed in English. Tickets range from $10 to $25 and are free for students with a valid UCO ID. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit BronchoArts.com or call 405-974-3375.
For a complete list of UCO College of Fine Arts and Design events and performances, visit www.uco.edu/cfad/.
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Cutline: The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music will present an evening of opera featuring two one-act works, “The Ghosts of Gatsby” and “The Old Maid and the Thief,” at 7:30 p.m., Feb. 27-28, and 2 p.m., March 1, in Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central's campus. Pictured, cast members from "The Old Maid and the Thief," left to right, Kendra Moon, a master of music in vocal performance graduate student from Portland, Oregon; Trever Spruill, a junior vocal performance major from Chandler, Oklahoma; and, Sarah Spurlin, faculty guest artist from Oklahoma City.
