News Archives: Operatic Star Ben Heppner to Perform at GPRC
Wednesday, November 20th, 2013
A partnership of Grande Prairie Regional College and Grande Prairie Live Theatre is pleased to bring the internationally acclaimed tenor Ben Heppner to our community on March 30, 2014. Heppner, as his website states, is “recognized worldwide as the finest dramatic tenor before the public today. He excels in the most challenging roles, from Wagner's Tristan and Lohengrin to Verdi's Otello and Berlioz' Aeneas. He is acclaimed in music capitals around the world for his beautiful voice, intelligent musicianship and sparkling dramatic sense. His performances on the opera stage, in concert with the world's leading orchestras, in the most prestigious recital venues, and in recordings have set new standards in his demanding repertoire.”
Mr. Heppner grew up in Dawson Creek, BC. His rise to prominence on the world stage is an amazing story. He studied music at the University of British Columbia, and first gained national attention in 1979 as the winner of the Canadian Broadcasting Company Talent Festival. He is a recipient of numerous awards including several Grammy and Juno Awards and notable international recognitions. In 2002, Mr. Heppner was named an Officer of the Order of Canada.
In concert in the GPRC DJ Cardinal Performing Arts Centre, Ben Heppner will perform both operatic and popular music in a program designed for the broadest possible audience. He has also offered to share his life's journey with a select number of students from the GPRC Performing Arts Program and local high schools. Those students will not only have the rare opportunity of personal contact with an internationally acclaimed musician whose origins are in our own region, but will be given complimentary seats for the concert.
Carmen Haakstad, Vice President External Relations says, “GPRC is honoured to partner with GPLT to host Mr Heppner. We are proud to bring this international superstar and decorated Canadian from the Peace Region to our College stage.”
“Grande Prairie Live Theatre is committed to bringing world class entertainers to Grande Prairie. Thanks to our partnership with GPRC we can achieve our goal. Mr. Heppner's success on the world stage is an amazing achievement for someone raised in Dawson Creek, BC.” said GPLT President Cyril Cook. Tickets are now on sale and available through the GPLT box office or online at gplt.ab.ca.
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