Los Angeles Opera Enchants with New Production of Rigoletto

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The Los Angeles Opera's production of Rigoletto showcases innovative stage design and powerful performances.

News Summary

The Los Angeles Opera’s latest production of ‘Rigoletto’ features a bold reimagining set in fascist Italy before World War II. Directed by Tomer Zvulun, the opera showcases striking visual elements and a standout cast including Quinn Kelsey as Rigoletto. The production captures the intense themes of power struggle and authoritarianism, set against a noir-inspired backdrop. With performances continuing through June 21, this rendition promises to resonate deeply with both traditional opera lovers and newcomers alike.

Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Opera launched a stirring and politically charged production of “Rigoletto” on Saturday night at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. This new rendition of Giuseppe Verdi’s classic opera updates its setting to the tumultuous period of fascist Italy before World War II and employs visually striking elements to tell the story of a tortured jester grappling with the forces of mob rule.

Under the direction of Tomer Zvulun from the Atlanta Opera, the production showcases a unique set design featuring a rotating monolith that creates different stage levels for varied scenes. The style is reminiscent of Film Noir, reflecting influences from renowned filmmakers Federico Fellini and Luis Buñuel, enhancing the opera’s dark and intense themes. The use of crowd scenes depicted through characters wearing cartoon masks serves to symbolize the pervasive evil and authoritarianism within the opera’s narrative.

The cast delivers powerful performances, notably with baritone Quinn Kelsey, who takes on the title role of Rigoletto. His portrayal is marked by a strong sense of vulnerability paired with a magnetic stage presence that captivates audiences. Tenor René Barbera stars as the Duke, a character depicted not as a leader concerned with the mob but rather as an unscrupulous philanderer focused on romantic conquests. In the role of Gilda, soprano Lisette Oropesa brings emotional depth and beauty, further enriching the production’s overall impact with her performance.

Supporting the performers visually, costume designer Jessica Jahn integrated fashion elements reminiscent of the 1920s flapper era, while lighting designer Robert Wierzel fostered a dark, noir atmosphere that sets the stage for the drama unfolding against its backdrop. The L.A. Opera’s chorus plays a crucial role, depicting a cruel and savage crowd that adds to the production’s intensity and themes of struggle for authority.

The production also marks an important moment for the L.A. Opera, as it concludes James Conlon’s penultimate season as the music director. The evening’s performance lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, featuring a single intermission, allowing audiences to immerse themselves fully in the dramatic landscape of the opera.

Ticket prices range from $49 to $450, with performances scheduled to continue through June 21, giving larger audiences a chance to witness this compelling interpretation of a timeless tale. The reception thus far indicates that this production represents a significant improvement for the L.A. Opera, overcoming challenges faced in previous adaptations.

In conjunction with “Rigoletto,” the premiere of the new opera “Schoenberg in Hollywood”, which showcases uncompromising modernism, coincides with the run, presenting a rare opportunity for opera enthusiasts to experience contrasting yet profound works.

This revival of “Rigoletto” not only digs deep into its narrative of power struggles and authoritarian themes but also resonates with contemporary issues, making it a must-see for both long-time opera lovers and new audiences alike.