A Sneak Peek at the
2024 - 2025 Season
Things are still up in the air with the ’24-25 Season,
but here are some things that are front-runners at the moment...
Les Contes d’Hoffmann
“Les Contes d’Hoffmann” is an opéra fantas-tique by Jacques Offenbach, and it shines as a gem in the operatic repertoire. The libretto, penned by Jules Barbier, draws inspiration from three short stories by E. T. A. Hoffmann—the very author who becomes the opera’s protagonist. Offenbach’s final work, it premiered in 1881, just months after his
passing. What sets “Hoffmann” apart are its fantastical elements. Hoffmann, an artist, narrates his own tales, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Each act unveils a different love story, from an enchanted automaton to a doomed singer to a Venetian courtesan to an operatic diva. The opera bridges the gap between Romanticism and the emerging Impressionist era. Its lush melodies, intricate characterizations, and emotional depth make it a captivating journey. From the haunting “Barcarolle” to the tragic fate of Antonia, it weaves magic and melancholy. It is a treasure trove of passion, mystery, and musical brilliance—a gem that continues to enchant audiences worldwide. Left unfinished at his death, several musicologists have endeavored to evolve a satisfying ending that uses some newly-discovered materials that have hitherto been lost to us, but artistic director Ron De Fesi has put together what he hopes is an ending that “ties up all the loose ends,” and gives the kind of punch to the final act that Offenbach had imagined, but never had the chance to create. See for yourself if he has succeeded where others have come up short...
Il Tabarro
& Suor Angelica
“Il Tabarro” and “Suor Angelica”, both part of Puccini’s “Il Trittico,” (The Tryptic) form a compelling double bill that juxtaposes tragedy and sentimentality. “Il Tabarro” (The Cloak) immerses us in the murky world of Parisian barge workers. Amidst the Seine’s mist, love,
betrayal, and murder intertwine. Puccini’s orchestral genius paints a gritty, cinematic Paris, foreshadowing film noir. The score pulses with realism—sirens, hurdy-gurdy tunes, and the clash of passions. A husband, wife, and lover collide, their frustrations and impossible dreams culminating in a fatal encounter. Dark and intense, “Il Tabarro” is verismo at its finest. “Suor Angelica”, on the other hand, transports us to a convent. Here, sentimen-tality reigns. Angelica, a young nun, grapples with guilt and longing. Her tragic past unfolds, revealing maternal love, redemption, and a heart-wrenching finale. Puccini’s lyrical melodies evoke ethereal beauty, echoing Angelica’s inner turmoil. Together, these operas showcase Puccini’s versatility—from gritty realism to poignant lyricism. They occupy a unique place in the operatic firmament, bridging eras and emotions.
The Gypsy Baron
“The Gypsy Baron” (Der Zigeunerbaron) is an enchanting operetta in three acts composed by Johann Strauss II. It premiered at the Theater an der Wien in Vienna on October 24, 1885. The libretto, by Ignaz Schnitzer, draws inspiration from the unpublished 1883 story “Saffi” by Mór Jókai. Unlike Strauss’s earlier light-hearted works, The Gypsy Baron takes a more serious tone both musically and dramatically. It represents a step in Strauss’s quest for the composition of a genuine opera. The operetta’s success was international during the composer’s lifetime, ranking second only to the popularity of Die Fledermaus. Set in Hungary, The Gypsy Baron weaves a colorful narrative around the proposed marriage of two central characters: Sándor Barinkay, a landowner who returns from exile, and Arsena, a spirited gypsy girl. As the story unfolds, we discover that Arsena is not just any gypsy girl. She is the daughter of a Turkish Pasha named Zsupán. But there’s more: she is also the rightful owner of a hidden treasure. The operetta delves into themes of love, identity, and the clash of cultures. Amidst the lively music and spirited dances, we witness the unfolding drama of love, intrigue, and the quest for hidden riches. The characters grapple with their pasts, their desires, and the complexities of their intertwined destinies. Barinkay must navigate the challenges of love, loyalty, and the allure of wealth. Meanwhile, Arsena balances her gypsy heritage with her newfound status as a nobleman’s daughter. And lurking in the background is the enigmatic Zsupán, whose role in the treasure hunt adds an element of mystery.
As the operetta unfolds, we witness the characters’ joys, sorrows, and unexpected twists. Strauss’s music captures the essence of the Hungarian landscape, infusing the operetta with lively czardas, waltzes, and heartfelt melodies. Der Zigeunerbaron remains a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and adventure—a testament to Johann Strauss II’s genius and his ability to transport audiences to a world where love and music reign supreme.
The Barber of Seville St.
The Barber of Seville: A Mafia Comedy in 1930s Philadelphia. In this captivating production, Rossini’s beloved opera “The Barber of Seville” takes a thrilling twist: the opera unfolds against the gritty backdrop of 1930s Philadelphia. The streets echo with jazz, clandestine deals, and the allure of forbidden romance. We follow the escapades of the charismatic Al Maviva, a rising star in the mafia underworld. His heart is set on the enchanting Rosina Stracciatella, a young beauty trapped under the watchful eye of her cunning guardian, the Don Bartolo. But Al isn’t alone in his pursuit, he is aided by a guy named Figaro—enter the enigmatic hitman known as “The Barber.” With humor, wit, and a touch of danger, Rossini’s masterpiece weaves a tale of love, deception, and unexpected alliances. Prepare for laughter, intrigue, and arias that resonate through the ages. Rossini composed “The Barber of Seville” in 1816, based on the French play of the same name by Beaumarchais. Its lively melodies, sparkling humor, and relatable characters quickly made it a favorite among audiences. From Figaro’s iconic “Largo al factotum” to Rosina’s charming arias, to the soaring second act finale, the opera’s music remains irresistible. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to blend romance, farce, and cunning schemes into a delightful whole. Enjoy the operatic intrigue and mobster machinations as they unfold on the streets of 1930s Philadelphia!