Western students bored of their usual weekend outings and looking to change things up can look no further than UWOpera for an evening of entertainment.

Directed by music professors Sophie Roland and Theodore Baerg, UWOpera’s presentation of Mozart’s 1787 masterpiece, Don Giovanni, tells the story of a young nobleman and his trials and tribulations with women.

THE MASTER BEHIND THE MUSIC. See UWOpera’s version of Mozart’s dramatic tale, Don Giovanni, this weekend and next at the Paul Davenport Theatre.

Baerg stresses the importance of choosing an opera like this for young vocal students. “Mozart is always an important composer to consider since his music is performed so widely. It is also a very important part of a young singers growth since most his music is vocally accessible,” he explains.

“In addition, we looked at the vocal resources that we knew would be available to audition and knew that this wonderful opera would be possible.”

The all-student cast was selected the second week of September and has been rehearsing since the fall. They are putting in 18 to 20 hours of practice time a week leading up to the show’s run in late January and early February.

“We have great young singers at Western, committed faculty and a supportive administration with a wonderful new performance space at the Paul Davenport Theatre. Don’t miss the opportunity to see what this confluence of good things can create,” Baerg says.

The experience has proved to be a good challenge for voice students.

“Every opera has its challenges and Don Giovanni does as well. Some of them are technical — like, how do we send Don Giovanni to hell at the end? Some of [the] challenges are vocal for developing voices. What we do have is two wonderful casts of very committed singers who have done a fabulous job in their preparation,” Baerg adds.

A special package is being offered along with tickets to see the show along with dinner, overnight accommodation and breakfast at the Windermere Manor for $99 a person. You can also be treated to a three-course dinner and driven to the Paul Davenport Theatre for $50.

Although opera may not be the first choice of entertainment for many students, UWOpera’s presentation of Don Giovanni offers an alternative and perhaps more sophisticated night out.

UWOpera’s presentation of Don Giovanni runs Jan. 29 and 30 and Feb. 5 and 6 at 8 p.m., as well as Jan. 31 and Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. at the Paul Davenport Theatre. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors/students. Call 519-679-8778 for tickets.