The Washington Opera House is gearing up to host Yukine Kuroki, the winner of the 2022 Franz Liszt Piano Competition, who will be performing for the community.
While the historic venue is currently adorned with Halloween decorations, it will revert to its classical charm in just under a week to welcome the world-renowned pianist. Caroline Reese, the Maysville Main Street Director, reflected on the opera house’s rich history, stating, “It is really a special place for such a small town. It’s always had a deep love and appreciation for music and the arts.”
The Washington Opera House boasts a storied past dating back to the 1850s and continues to serve as a hub for both theatrical and musical performances. But how did this small town become one of only two U.S. stops on this tour? According to Reese, it all began with an accidental conversation on a plane.
“If they are going to travel to the United States, they should see more than just a city. They should experience the culture and see how people live in small towns,” Reese explained. This conversation sparked the inception of a now 21-year tradition where each winner of the competition makes a stop in Maysville.
This year, Yukine Kuroki will perform a selection of classical pieces that contributed to her winning title, further solidifying Maysville’s significance as a special destination in the global arts community.
A key player in keeping the arts vibrant at the Washington Opera House is the Maysville Players, one of the county’s oldest performance groups. For over 60 years, this group has worked to ensure the community stays connected to the arts, offering performances and creating opportunities for locals to engage with culture beyond their everyday lives.
Debbie Lewis, president of the Maysville Players, highlighted the group’s commitment to accessibility, stating, “We offer free tickets for those who can’t get here. We even have buses to bring kids from certain parts of town. We want them to see that there’s more out there than just what they experience at home.”
As Reese reflected on the growth and enduring history of the opera house, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “For the arts to thrive in this building and in this town for as long as they have, I feel lucky.” The concert is set for November 1 and is made possible through the John W. McNeil Performance Series, which sponsors the event.
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