…a searing and riveting presentation that is simply one of best local opera
productions since Opera Theatre’s Glorianna back in 2005… Absolutely every aspect of Union Avenue’s work
is spot on. The cast is first-rate both vocally and theatrically—as good a collection of singers and
actors (some roles are non-singing) as you will find anywhere. Tim Ocel’s direction is clear and
focused… more...
…story-telling at its exhilarating best. With impeccable stage direction by
Tim Ocel…Union Avenue Opera’s rendition of this spare, direct work is a stunning artistic achievement
that never fails to keep the focus on the sobering story unfolding… Dead Man Walking is receiving its
Missouri premiere in a riveting, absorbing production. more...
Tim Ocel's direction finds the heart at the center of this terrible
happening… The Union Avenue Opera's production of Dead Man Walking is a
must-see event, heavy and searing, but well worth the humanity and the pain of forgiveness, for the
sheer joy of seeing masterful performers at work. more...
The acting has the kind of detail and moment-to-moment
responsiveness that we’d be lucky to see on any stage, not just in opera. For this we have to give
credit to the director Tim Ocel … the most involving production of an opera I’ve ever attended…a
landmark of St. Louis theatre.
Watch Video
for full review: http://www.hectv.org/video/2479/august-25-2011/
Dead Man Walking
Union Avenue Opera, 2011
… director Tim Ocel and everyone else involved really knocked themselves out
for this one. It's probably the finest production that UAO has ever done…. Ocel added meaning to every
scene with his staging. more...