Jacques Offenbach's most famous and beloved operatic work, The Tales of Hoffmann, will be presented by the Music Department Saturday, May 6, at 8 p.m., and Sunday, May 7, at 3 p.m. in Johnson Theatre.

In each of the three acts, Hoffmann, sung by the very promising tenor Miles Burns, tells of his love first for Olympia, sung by Jennifer Pomeroy, then Guilietta sung by Linsey-Jean Tufts, and Antonia, sung by Emily Faulhaber. The evil genius of Copellius, Dapertutto and Dr. Miracle, all sung by Benjamin Clark, works in each case to undo Hoffmann's hopes, driving him at last to despair and drink, yet rescued by love of The Muse, the presence of poetry and art itself which forever nurture and revive his romantic soul.

The production is staged by Benjamin Clark, with orchestra and chorus directed by David Ripley and assistance by Jennifer Sneirson-Kun. The singing is spectacular, especially noting the memorable high “E flat” offered by coloratura soprano Jennifer Pomeroy in the challenging role of Olympia.

Tickets are $10 General admission and $5 for students and seniors. They may be purchased at the door or the MUB ticket office. For tickets call 2-2290. For information, call 2- 2404.