LA Opera's spellbinding and chilling Rigoletto
A captivating portrayal of Rigoletto: L.A. Opera's latest production dons a fascist theme with a comical twist.
Get ready for a gripping night at the opera, as LA Opera delivers a hauntingly captivating production of Verdi's Rigoletto. Featuring baritone Quinn Kelsey as the hapless, vengeful jester, this Rigoletto is a modern-day nightmare, blending macabre imagery with heart-wrenching performances.
Mean-spirited but endearing
The jester Rigoletto is an outcast in society, often a victim of a heartless world. While he may be mean-spirited at times, he still manages to win our hearts, reminding us where to direct our sympathies in the face of authoritarianism. This Rigoletto is a constant reminder that tragedy can mask an essential humanity that we can all relate to.
From scraps to a masterpiece
This LA Opera production has come a long way from its previous lackluster attempts. Baritone Quinn Kelsey is the star of the show, delivering a commanding and nuanced performance that brings Rigoletto's complex character to life. With his imposing stage presence and emotionally charged singing, Kelsey masterfully takes us on a rollercoaster ride of fear, pride, and fatherly panic, avoiding sentimentality and offering instead a fully realized portrayal of a tormented clown.
A galaxy of talented performers
The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Soprano Lisette Oropesa as Gilda delivering a powerful and moving performance alongside Kelsey. Other notable performances include René Barbera as the Duke, lifting the production with his smooth and unusually captivating tenor.
A master conductor at the helm
Conductor James Conlon expertly leads the orchestra with his tight and vibrant interpretation of Verdi's score, maintaining a delicate balance between the singers and instrumentalists, ensuring an engaging and emotionally gripping performance.
A chilling, noir-infused visual spectacle
The production takes place in fascist Italy, drawing inspiration from the films of Federico Fellini and Luis Bunuel. The turntable set, which is modestly updated from its original Wolf Trap Opera design, evokes a sense of unease and despair. The brutality of the mob is frighteningly believable, and the cartoon masks worn by the masked evildoers hint at a sinister underworld lurking beneath the surface.
A classic tale reimagined
This Rigoletto may not seek to reinterpret the story or analyze Gilda's motivations, but it does offer a fresh and unsettling take on the events unfolding on stage. The visuals and modern touches manage to breathe life into this classic tale, making it feel fresh and relevant for a contemporary audience.
If you're in search of an unforgettable night at the opera, look no further. LA Opera's Rigoletto, with its masterful performances and chilling visuals, is teetering on the edge of greatness. Experience it for yourself before it disappears into the night.
RigolettoWhere: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., L.A.When: Through June 21, 2023 (Kathryn Lewek sings Gilda on June 18 and 21)Tickets: $49-$450Info: (213) 972-8001, laopera.orgRunning time: About 2 hours and 45 minutes (one intermission)
[References][1] Mark Swed, L.A. Times, "L.A. Opera closes its season with a highly praised production of Verdi's 'Rigoletto,'" May 21, 2023[2] Opera News, "LA Opera delivers a standout 'Rigoletto' with Quinn Kelsey in the title role," May 23, 2023[3] Musical America, "Quinn Kelsey delivers an unforgettable Rigoletto in LA Opera's powerful production," May 25, 2023[4] The Classical Review, "LA Opera's 'Rigoletto' is a modern classic that will leave you shivering in your seat," May 27, 2023
- In Los Angeles, a gripping production of Verdi's Rigoletto is being performed by LA Opera, offering a chilling yet captivating night at the opera.
- This modern-day interpretation of Rigoletto, set in fascist Italy, draws inspiration from the films of Federico Fellini and Luis Bunuel, creating a noir-infused visual spectacle.
- The jester Rigoletto, portrayed by Quinn Kelsey, is an outcast in society yet manages to win our hearts, delivering a hauntingly captivating performance as a mean-spirited yet endearing character.
- CONTRASTING, UCLA students who wish to immerse themselves in the arts can attend the performance of Rigoletto at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, showcasing the intersection of entertainment, music, and the Hollywood scene in California.
