Opera Westminster performed at Independent College and University Day held Oct. 16 at the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Westminster College was recognized for its contribution to the arts.

The event, established by State House Resolution No. 406, was sponsored by the Association of Independent Colleges & Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP), of which Westminster is a member.

The Opera Westminster service-learning course performed in off-campus settings that included a Pittsburgh Opera reception, a nursing home, a preschool, and an Italian restaurant.
Dr. Anne Bentz, Westminster associate professor of music and director of Opera Westminster, was a Service Learning Faculty Fellow last year. Under her direction in Harrisburg, students performed "O help me, o help me!" and "Die Vicious Snake" from Mozart's The Magic Flute. Ladies of the Queen of the Night were played by Karen Biddle, Ashley Cesaratto, and Jill Darby. The part of Tamino was portrayed by Douglas Rab. Chris Granger provided piano accompaniment.

Dr. Virginia Tomlinson, Westminster associate professor of sociology and director of the Drinko Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning, said, "We were one of 10 colleges selected to participate and represent different areas in which independent colleges contribute to the state."

AICUP's booklet, "Top 10 Reasons Pennsylvania Needs Independent Colleges & Universities," featured Westminster's contribution to the arts. The caption stated, "Independent colleges and universities provide numerous opportunities for students to get involved in the arts. But the communities also benefit-many institutions have built centers for the arts for students and residential performances."

Westminster is recognized as a Western Pennsylvania Center for the Cultural Arts with its active music and theatre programs, and 40-year-old Celebrity Series, which brings the finest performers to the region.

Westminster's Drinko Center provided funding for the trip.

Contact Tomlinson at (724) 946-6033 or e-mail tomlinvm@westminster.edu for additional information. 

(l-r) Karen Biddle, Jill Darby, Ashley Cesaratto, Doug Rab, Chris Granger

Dr. Anne Bentz