September 03, 2024
Behind the Curtain: Exploring Rigoletto & Fidelio
This fall, a much-anticipated new opera season opens at Lyric. As a companion to the thrilling performances onstage, Lyric is excited to host conversations that delve deeper into the issues and themes in our mainstage operas through programs like our Opera Insights series. RSVP to join us for several free upcoming events that provide fascinating insights and a modern lens for the classic operas that open our season.
Rigoletto director Mary Birnbaum in a staging rehearsal with Mané Galoyan (Gilda) and Javier Camarena (Duke of Mantua).
Rigoletto Opera Insights: Unraveling misogyny, gender-based violence, and domestic abuse
When: Tuesday, September 10 at 7:00 p.m.
Where: Oak Park Public Library — Main Branch (834 Lake, Oak Park, IL)
Join us for a thought-provoking panel discussion that delves into Verdi's timeless opera, Rigoletto, through the critical modern-day perspective of domestic and sexual abuse, and asks the question: What would or wouldn't you do for love? Lyric Unlimited Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Antonio C. Cuyler moderates this conversation that unravels intricate layers of misogyny and gender-based violence alongside prominent voices from local domestic abuse advocacy organization Sarah's Inn, nationally renowned Chicago-based arts organization A Long Walk Home, whose goal is to end violence against girls and women, and the production's director, Mary Birnbaum.
Fidelio Opera Insights
When: Tuesday, September 17 from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Where: Reva and David Logan Center for the Performing Arts — Penthouse, University of Chicago (915 E. 60th Street, Chicago, IL 60637)
Embark on a journey into Beethoven's only opera, Fidelio, through a lens of justice, revolution, and liberation. We invite you to a compelling panel discussion moderated by Lyric Unlimited Learning and Civic Engagement Scholar-in-Residence Dr. Antonio C. Cuyler and featuring representatives from the Illinois Prison Project as well as Lyric's cast for Fidelio. We'll explore the opera's powerful and shockingly contemporary themes including the dehumanization of people caught within the confines of the prison industrial complex, and how to pursue advocacy at the state and local levels.
Co-presented by Lyric Opera of Chicago and Chicago Opera Theater
Revolution, Love, Freedom: Explore the sacrifice of love and defiance of tyranny in Fidelio and Leonora
When: Saturday, September 21 from 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: The Chicago Temple, First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple — Sanctuary (77 W. Washington, Chicago, IL 60602)
Join us for an enlightening discussion that delves into the contrasting interpretations of the story of Leonore by two remarkable composers: Ludwig van Beethoven and Ferdinando Paër. This talk, moderated by WFMT's LaRob K. Rafael, will explore the origins of the source material that inspired both operas and examine how each composer-librettist team uniquely addresses the themes of liberty, revolution, self-sacrifice, love, and justice. This discussion will bring together the artistic teams behind Lyric Opera of Chicago's upcoming production of Beethoven's Fidelio (conductor Enrique Mazzola and director Matthew Ozawa), and Chicago Opera Theater's upcoming production of Paër's Leonora (conductor Dame Jane Glover and director Lawrence Edelson).
Fidelio Opera Insights
When: Wednesday, October 2 from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.
Where: Lyric Opera House
This is an onsite presentation of the above September 17 program, designed for ticket holders to Fidelio. October 2 ticket holders may stay in the theater post-show. Ticket holders for other Fidelio performances are invited to RSVP so that they may gain entrance to the theater post-show.
"Death by Life" by Renaldo Hudson
Heart Work: The Works Of Renaldo Hudson
When: September 25 - October 10
Where: Lyric Opera House
This fall as Lyric presents Fidelio, attendees can view selections from Heart Work: The Works of Renaldo Hudson, an art exhibit throughout the main floor and mezzanine of the Lyric Opera House. The eclectic collection is a visual representation of Hudson's experiences, vision, and work during his 37 years of incarceration, including 13 on death row prior to becoming an educator, minister, and community organizer. (More details to come related to viewing hours outside of Fidelio performances.)
Rigoletto Artist Talkback
When: Sunday, October 6 at 4:45 p.m.
Where: Lyric Opera House
Join us after the final performance of Rigoletto on Sunday, October 6th for an Artist Talkback with the stars of this Verdi masterpiece. Whether you're a lifelong opera aficionado or new to the genre, this talkback promises a fascinating exploration of Verdi's dramatic vision and the innovative approaches taken in this production. Don't miss out on the opportunity to ask questions, gain new perspectives, and enrich your appreciation of this iconic work.
RSVP not required. Attendees of the October 6 matinee are invited to remain in the theater post-show for this artist talkback event.
