David Malis, director of the University of Arkansas' Opera Theatre and Assistant Professor in the Music Department, spent the summer of 2018 performing in Ermoupoli on the Greek Island of Syros, and teaching in Transylvania, Romania.

As a leading baritone at the 14th International Festival of the Aegean, professor Malis sang Alidoro in Rossini's La Cenerentola and the title role in Puccini's Gianni Schicchi on the beautiful Greek island of Syros. This new production of Rossini's second opera was mounted to celebrate the 150th anniversary of his death. Rossini was the most important opera composer of his era, having composed The Barber of Seville (Il Barbiere di Siviglia) at the age of 18 and following this enormous success with Cinderella (La Cenerentola). The reviews for the production, and for professor Malis in particular, were exemplary.

In New York City, the Critic's Point reviewer said: "The role of Alidoro, sung by David Malis, a veteran American baritone of the Metropolitan Opera of New York, as expected, pleased in the depth of his interpretation. Musically and vocally impressive, he moved comfortably through all the ranges of his role."

Athens critic Dimitri Kiousopoulos wrote: "Pedagogue Alidoro was interpreted with great authority by baritone David Malis, an experienced protagonist at the Metropolitan Opera of New York, who brought to us, through this central role, the glory of a great theater."

In August, Malis taught and presented public master classes for Icon Arts International in various venues throughout Romania.

This Nov. 27 and 28, the University of Arkansas Opera Theatre will present performances of Gian Carlo Menotti's The Old Maid and the Thief in the Faulkner Center for the Performing Arts. The University Symphony Orchestra will be conducted by Robert Mueller, and Malis will be the stage director and primary vocal coach.