By: centraljersey.com
Italian theater in Princeton
Pietro Frassica, professor of Italian at Princeton University, will present his new book "Her Maestro’s Echo: Pirandello and the Actress who Conquered Broadway in One Evening" at 5 p.m. at Dorothea’s House, "Princeton’s center for Italian culture," at 120 John St
The book is based on correspondence between the Italian Nobel-prize winner Luigi Pirandello and actress Marta Abba. In the 1980s Ms. Abba invited Professor Frassica to edit Pirandello’s letters to her, and his book "Caro Maestro," published in 1994, is a translation of some of those letters. His latest book, published in 2010, sheds light on Ms. Abba as an actress, and gives more insight into the relationship between an author and an actress, between an artist and his collaborating muse, between an older man and younger women.
In addition to Professor Frassica’s readings, some of the excerpts will be dramatized by actors Meghan Duffy and Ric Randig, directed by Mimi Gisolfi.
The program is free and open to the public, who are encouraged to bring a refreshment to share in the reception following the presentation.
On the Web: www.dorotheashouse.org.
‘Butterfly Lovers’ in Plainsboro
The Bravura Philharmonic Orchestra, with music director and conductor Ms. Chiu-Tze Lin, will welcome the internationally distinguished Chinese violinist and teacher Mr. Hua-Yi Wang as soloist in the "Butterfly Lovers" Concerto (1959) at 7 p.m. in the Princeton Alliance Church, 20 Schalks Crossing Road, Plainsboro.
One of the most popular works in the Chinese orchestral repertory, the "Butterfly Lovers" Concerto is based on an ancient legend which has been described as the Chinese equivalent to "Romeo and Juliet." Mr. Wang was a consultant to Chen Gang and He Zhanhao as they composed the piece.
Also on the program is Brahms’ Symphony No. 4.
General admission prices are $15, $12 for seniors and students, and $12 for students. Premium seating is available at $25 each. To purchase in advance, visit www.bravuraphil.org.
– Michael Redmond
Reminder: The Friends of West Windsor Library Annual Book Sale enters the home stretch Friday, March 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, March 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Box & Bag Day Sunday, March 6, 12:30 to 4 p.m. – bring a bag or a box. All proceeds benefit the West Windsor library, located at 333 N. Post Road. Shop early & shop often!

