ABERDEEN, S.D. — Northern State University Opera & Theatre will present “Lovestruck & Saddle Sore: Tall Tales in Song” on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18, 2026. Both performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. in the Black Box Theater of the Johnson Fine Arts Center on the Northern State University campus.

The production will take audiences on a musical journey through the American frontier, blending humor, heart and a little theatrical adventure along the way. The evening will feature selections from well-known musicals with western themes, including Annie Get Your Gun, Oklahoma! and The Most Happy Fella.

The second half of the program will spotlight Sweet Betsy from Pike, a comic chamber opera centered on a strong-willed pioneer woman whose journey through the Gold Rush is filled with determination, romance and larger-than-life challenges.

With a mix of familiar musical favorites and spirited storytelling, “Lovestruck & Saddle Sore” captures the romance, comedy and character of life in the Old West.

The production is directed by Northern State University professors of music Darci Bultema, Marla Fogderud and Michael Skyles. Pianists for the performance are Kay Fischer and Peggy Vieth.

Student performers include Clara Kelm, Ember Geist, Isaac Johnson, Taye Cundiff, Miranda Myers, Stephen Rowenhorst, Alexis Schwagel, Cadance Tullis, Olivia Vogt and Gavin Wollman.

Tickets will be available for purchase before each performance. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors, faculty and staff. Students of all ages may attend free of charge.

For more information, contact the School of Fine Arts Office at 605-626-2497