Mesmeric Mozart
January 29, 2006
Berger Performing Arts Center
Tuscon, Arizona

Maria Theresa von Paradis... Stephanie Zimbalist
Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer... Efrem Zimbalist, Jr.

In 1777, the 18 year-old virtuoso pianist and composer Maria Theresa von Paradis, was brought to the Viennese clinic of Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer for medical examination and possible treatment for blindness.  This compelling drama enacts Mesmer's revolutionary treatment of von Paradis, their passion for music, and the personal relationship each shared with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.  Works for solo piano, soprano and glass harmonica by Mozart and von Paradis are intricately interwoven to create an intriguing evening of theater and music.