The first opera to be presented in Czech at UNT earned third place from the National Opera Association’s Opera Production Competition. Director Paula Homer accepted the award for the UNT performance of Smetana’s Prodaná nevesta (The Bartered Bride) at the association’s national convention in January in San Antonio.

Two Czech specialists worked with students during preparation for the opera, coaching the principal roles on how to speak the language and helping students perfect their Czech singing skills. The Bartered Bride was produced in collaboration with the Czech Educational Foundation of Texas Frank J. and Hermine Hurta Kostohryz Residency in Czech Music and Culture.

Previously, UNT has won awards from the National Opera Association for two productions: Argento’s Postcard from Morocco and Britten’s Albert Herring.