“Amahl and the Night Visitors” Come to San Mateo

The CCSM Chancel Choir and friends will present the one-act opera "Amahl and the Night Visitors" by Gian-Carlo Menotti, conducted by Dr. Kathleen McGuire. Commissioned by NBC and premiered on television December 24, 1951, Menotti devised a timeless story of the three magi en route to Bethlehem. Weary after walking many miles, the kings come upon a modest hut inhabited by a poor woman and her son, Amahl, a crippled boy. The magi relate to Amahl and his mother the reason for their journey: to visit a very special baby who will bring peace to the world. Intrigued, Amahl finds a way to provide a generous gift for the child that will change their lives forever.

The opera will be accompanied by a 16-piece orchestra. The cast and orchestra members are almost entirely from our own CCSM congregation. In addition to the opera, there will be traditional carol singing.