Montclair State University Alumni Jason Zacher and Jeremy Brauner Make Sarasota Opera Role Debuts in Susannah

We proudly celebrate alumni Jason Zacher and Jeremy Brauner as they make their Sarasota Opera role debuts in Carlisle Floyd’s powerful American opera Susannah with Sarasota Opera.

Jason Zacher, baritone (Music Education ’16; Performer’s Certificate in Voice ’22), who studied under esteemed voice teacher Karen Driscoll, takes on the pivotal role of Olin Blitch. A commanding presence both vocally and dramatically, Zacher brings depth and intensity to the complex revivalist preacher, marking an important professional milestone in his burgeoning operatic career.

Joining him on the Sarasota stage is Jeremy Brauner, tenor (BFA in Musical Theatre ’12), who studied with Peter Stewart. Brauner performs the role of Sam Polk, adding to his growing list of professional credits with this role debut appearance. His transition from musical theatre training to operatic performance highlights the versatility and strong foundational training he developed at Montclair. This marks Brauner’s 4th season at Sarasota Opera (2013, 2024, 2025, 2026).

Composed by Carlisle Floyd, Susannah remains one of the most frequently performed American operas, celebrated for its emotional intensity and distinctly American musical voice. The Sarasota Opera production showcases both alumni in a work that demands dramatic nuance and vocal strength.

From campus to prominent professional stages, Montclair State University graduates continue to build distinguished careers across the field. Zacher and Brauner’s Sarasota Opera role debuts underscore the excellence of Montclair’s vocal and musical theatre programs and the enduring mentorship of its faculty.