Academy of Sacred Drama to Present Noble Soul, the Western Hemisphere Premiere of Pier Francesco Tosi’s oratorio Il martirio di S Caterina
The Academy of Sacred Drama is thrilled to announce the Western Hemisphere premiere of Pier Francesco Tosi’s Il martirio di S Caterina (The Martyrdom of St. Catherine), a powerful oratorio from 1701. This captivating work tells the story of Catherine of Alexandria, a brilliant and devout Christian who bravely confronts the ruthless King Maxentius.
Catherine’s unwavering faith leads her to denounce Maxentius’ cruelty towards Christians, convert members of the royal court, and ultimately earn a martyr’s fate. This production features a cast of five singers, led by mezzo-soprano Kim Leeds in the title role, accompanied by an ensemble of Baroque-style instruments including harpsichord and theorbo.
Noble Soul will be presented as a semi-staged production on Sunday, March 16, 2025 at 3 PM: St. James the Less Episcopal Church (10 Church Lane, Scarsdale, NY 10583)
Tickets are available for $15-$60 and can be purchased online at sacreddrama.org.
The cast includes:
• Gene Stenger, tenor, in the roles of Testo & Filosofo “impressive tenor” (The New York Times)
• Kim Leeds, mezzo-soprano, in the title role of Caterina winner of the Tafelmusik Vocal Competition (2016)
• Paul Max Tipton, bass baritone, in the role of Massimino
described by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution as a dignified and beautiful singer
• Margaret Carpenter Haigh, soprano, in the role of Regina GRAMMY-nominated soprano described as “standout” by The New York Times
• Clifton Massey, countertenor, in the role of Porfirio “an expressive marvel” (San Francisco Classical Voice)
The production is led by:
• Jeremy Rhizor: music director and violin
• Tony Lopresti: movement director
• Adam Cockerham: associate music director and theorbo
The instrumental ensemble features:
• MarcBellassai:harpsichord
• Arnie Tanimoto: cello
• JohnStajduhar:bass
• DanMcCarthy:viola
• LydiaBecker:violin
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the compelling story of St. Catherine and the powerful music of Pier Francesco Tosi in this exciting Western Hemisphere premiere.
