Most Kansas University educators don’t sing their inaugural distinguished professor lectures.

But when the professor is an acclaimed opera singer, an alternate lecture format may be in order.

Joyce Castle, university distinguished professor of voice in KU’s School of Music, will direct and sing in the one-act opera “Strawberry Fields” for her distinguished professor inaugural “lecture.”

The performance, which is free and open to the public, is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 21 at Crafton-Preyer Theatre in Murphy Hall, 1530 Naismith Drive.

Joyce Castle

Castle, who has taught at KU since 2001, was named a distinguished professor in 2014.

Community members will have another chance to see Castle perform later that weekend. KU opera will present “Strawberry Fields” and “Comedy on the Bridge” at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 22 and Jan. 24 at Crafton-Preyer Theatre. Tickets are $10, or $5 for seniors and students, and available at the door or in advance by calling 864-3436.