Tempers rise to a pitch as Keith Phares, middle, who plays Elder Tuller, threatens to whip Joshua Dennis, left, as Bern Venters while Karin Wolverton's Jane Withersteen, far right, is taken aback during the Arizona Opera rehearsal of "Riders of the Purple Sage," the first western opera based on the famous Zane Grey in Phoenix on Feb 14, 2017. The production includes sets from Arizona artist Ed Mell. The premiere is expected to attract national attention from opera critics. A.E. Araiza / Arizona Daily Star
Arizona Opera's world premiere of "Riders of the Purple Sage" will take place Feb. 25-26 at the Tucson Music Hall.Β
Tucsonans can get an early look at this adaptation of Zane Grey's popular novel this Friday at Grace St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 2331 E. Adams St. at noon.Β
The preview is free, comes with a spoken introduction and includes selections performed by student singers. Bring your own lunch, so you can nosh while you watch.Β
