(COLUMBIA, SC) The Columbia College Department of Music will present two of Gian Carlo Menotti's most popular operas, "The Medium" and "The Telephone," on Friday and Saturday, April 15 and 16, 7:30 p.m., in Cottingham Theatre. The productions will be directed by Artist-in-Residence Sidney Palmer.

The event is open to the public. Tickets are $10 general admission and $5 for students and seniors (65 and over).

"The Medium," about a charlatan, Madam Flora, who defrauds her clients with fake seances, features guest artist Dr. Helen Tintes of the University of S.C. in the title role. The role of Madam Flora's daughter Monica is double cast, sung by Columbia College sopranos Jennifer Pratt and Evelyn Clary. Other cast members include Alex Dingman, Marc Rattray, Amelia Rollings, Katie Worthy, and Sarah Rosebrock.

"The Telephone," about a frustrated suitor, Ben, who has to comply with irritating interruptions while trying to propose to his sweetheart, Lucy, features Columbia College voice professor Richard Veale as Ben. The role of Lucy is double cast, sung by Columbia College sopranos Erin Wash and Ashunti Drummond.

Accompanists are Lucinda Shields and Jonathan Eason. Cynthia Hanna covers the role of Madam Flora. Sets and lighting are created by Columbia College Technical Director Patrick Faulds, with costuming, makeup and hair styles by Janet Kile.

For information, call the Cottingham Theatre Box Office at 803.786.3850.